Deepen Parikh, a partner at Courtside Ventures, emphasized that familiarity with the Indian gaming ecosystem is not a prerequisite to investing. Sharing his experience with the successful publisher WinZO, Parikh underscored the value of adaptability and learning through direct engagement. He noted that being "a little naive" at the start often leads to fresh, innovative solutions that align with market demands.
The conference, held at HITEX Exhibition Center, featured panels, workshops, and networking opportunities aimed at fostering collaboration between local developers and global investors. Discussions highlighted the potential of India’s diverse gaming audience, ranging from mobile gamers in rural areas to urban e-sports enthusiasts. Stakeholders underscored the need for culturally relevant content and affordable monetization models to cater to this varied demographic.
India’s gaming revenue is expected to grow exponentially, driven by increased smartphone penetration and affordable internet access. Attendees pointed to the success of games with India-specific themes and features as evidence of the value of local customization. For example, WinZO’s approach of integrating regional languages and microtransactions has set benchmarks for success in the market.
Panelists also stressed that the Indian gaming industry is more than a consumer market; it’s a hub of innovation. Developers and studios are making strides in areas like AR/VR gaming, contributing not only to domestic growth but also to global trends. The event provided a platform for showcasing these capabilities, with participants calling for sustained investments to nurture talent and infrastructure.