The earnings from gaming are growing in India as compared to 2022, with nearly half (45%) of serious gamers claiming to earn between ₹6 to ₹12 lakh per annum in 2023, according to a new report by PC and printer major HP.
The report, covering 3,000 gamers across 15 Indian cities, highlighted that along with fun and relaxation, gamers are now drawn to gaming for earning money and recognition. Sponsorships and esports tournaments have emerged as significant income sources, showcasing the growing importance of the gaming community in India.
“It is encouraging to see the esports industry growing and providing diverse career opportunities to gamers. We believe that Indian youth has the potential to not only make it big in the global esports arena but also to tap on entrepreneurial opportunities in the industry,” said Vickram Bedi, Senior Director, Personal Systems, HP India market.
Key Findings of the Report
- Nearly half (45%) of serious gamers claim to earn between ₹6 to ₹12 lakh per annum in 2023.
- Gaming is now not just limited to metros; there has been a huge surge in the number of serious gamers in non-metro cities.
- Gaming is not limited to a specific demographic, as 75% of GenZ and 67% of Millennials are serious gamers.
- About 58% of women respondents are identified as serious gamers, underlining the inclusive nature of gaming.
- Additionally, one in three gamers participates in tournaments, either for monetary gains or recognition.
- 61% of respondents were not aware of gaming courses in India, with more than half of gamers relying on YouTube and game buddies to enhance their skills.
- Nearly 57% of the respondents want gameplay training to get better at gaming.
- There has been a positive shift in parents’ perspective towards gaming, with 42% approving of gaming as a hobby.
- About 40% of parents admitted that their perception of gaming has turned positive in the last few years, mainly due to the growth of the industry.
Gaming as a Future Career Option
Gamers cited being an “influencer” or “esports management” as future career options in gaming. This suggests that gaming is becoming more than just a leisure activity; it is now a viable career path for many aspiring gaming professionals.
Conclusion
The report’s findings paint a positive picture of the gaming industry in India. The industry is growing rapidly, and there is a growing acceptance of gaming as a legitimate career option. This is a promising trend that is likely to continue in the years to come.
