A New Era for India’s Gaming Industry
The Indian gaming landscape is undergoing a monumental shift. Following the passage of the Online Gaming Bill, 2025 in Parliament, top Indian game developers and publishers have come together to launch a new industry body—the Indian Game Publishers and Developers Association (IGPDA). This pivotal move aims to establish a unified voice for the sector, advocate for policy support, and distinguish the rapidly growing games market from real money gaming, which now faces a nationwide ban.
The Online Gaming Bill, 2025: Transformative Legislation
What is the Bill About?
India’s Online Gaming Bill, 2025 seeks to regulate digital gaming by banning all forms of online real money games. This addresses concerns about gambling and betting, previously operating in legal grey areas despite being prohibited in most of the country.
Impact on Gaming Platforms
Major platforms like Dream11, MPL, and Zupee have begun winding down operations, reacting to the ban that erased huge swathes of revenue—Dream Sports reportedly losing nearly 95% overnight. The distinction between legitimate game publishers and real money operations has never been more crucial.
IGPDA: Unified Voice for Indian Game Makers
Who’s Involved? – Indian Game Developers Association
The newly formed IGPDA includes leading studios and publishers such as:
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Nazara Technologies
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Gametion
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nCore Games
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Reliance Games
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SuperGaming
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Tara Gaming
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Underdogs Studios
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Aeos Games
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Dot9 Games
These are the creative teams behind blockbuster titles like:
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World Cricket Championship
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Ludo King
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Fau-G: Domination
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WWE Mayhem
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Indus Battle Royale
Tara Gaming is developing “The Age of Bhaarat” for PC, while Underdogs Studios is working on “Mukti” for PC and PS5.
Mission & Vision
The group’s aim is to:
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Promote original, Made-in-India IP
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Foster development of globally competitive AAA titles
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Ensure representation for developers and publishers in policymaking
IGPDA’s formation signals India’s intent to nurture top-tier content, moving past the games market’s reliance on free-to-play mobile titles.
Why the Maharashtra Government Matters: Strategic Partnership
Mumbai as a Gaming Hub
The IGPDA is already seeking a strategic partnership with the Maharashtra state government—a move that could transform Mumbai into India’s gaming capital. Policy support in the form of tax incentives, infrastructure, and regulatory clarity would attract game makers and investors, elevating the ecosystem.
Upcoming Event
A major inaugural event is planned in Mumbai by year’s end, in collaboration with the state government. This marks the beginning of a dynamic policy-driven relationship aimed at boosting the Indian gaming sector.
India’s Market Landscape: Mobile-First, Free-to-Play Dominance
Key Stats
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Nearly 97% of Indian gamers play on smartphones or tablets (Niko Partners, 2023).
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Less than 1/3 of gamers spend money on video games.
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Free-to-play mobile titles drive the bulk of India’s gaming traffic.
Challenges & Opportunities
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Transitioning from mobile dominance to developing for PC and console.
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Building monetization strategies that appeal to a traditionally frugal audience.
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Creating incentives for international investment and local job growth.
Real Money Gaming: The Fallout
With the ban, real money platforms are rapidly exiting the market. Company founders, like Dream11’s Harsh Jain, confirm the devastating economic effect. However, the blow has galvanized traditional game developers and publishers to organize and advocate for the future of Indian gaming based on sustainable, creative models.
What’s Next for Indian Game Developers?
Advocacy & Policy Engagement
IGPDA’s formation means:
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Regular dialogue with state and central governments
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Pushing for practical, supportive regulations
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Elevating awareness of game development as a legitimate, creative tech industry
Industry Growth
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New funding opportunities
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Job creation in tech and entertainment
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Fostering independent, globally recognized IP
Building AAA Titles
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A move towards console and PC development
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Ambitions to compete with international studios
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Raising standards for storytelling, graphics, and user experience
Key Takeaways for India’s Evolving Games Industry
India’s new association of game developers and publishers—sparked by critical legislation and the fallout from the real money gaming ban—is committed to steering the industry into a new phase focused on creativity, quality, and community. The arrival of the Indian Game Publishers and Developers Association isn’t just organizational—it marks the country’s seriousness about becoming a global gaming contender.
With innovation, state partnerships like that with Maharashtra, and the collective power of the country’s top studios, Indian gaming is set for transformation, growth, and worldwide recognition.
