Women in Indian Gaming: Breaking Boundaries and Shaping the Future
How this is a big economic opportunity?
Changing the Game
In a world where gaming was once seen as a male-only domain, women in India are proving that the controllers belong in everyone's hands. They are not just participating but are also redefining what it means to be a gamer, developer, and influencer.
Women Gamers, More Than Just a Hobby
The presence of female gamers in India has skyrocketed, reflecting a broader shift in how gaming is perceived. Women now make up 43% of the gaming population, a huge leap from 30% in just a few years.
Why Mobile Gaming is a Game Changer - With almost 700 Mn smartphone users in India, it’s no surprise that 60% of mobile gamers are women. Games like Candy Crush and Ludo King offer bite-sized fun, fitting perfectly into the busy lives of many Indian women.
Stats Tell the Story, according to KPMG India, 78% of female gamers play daily, averaging 30 minutes per session. The engagement doesn’t stop at casual gaming; around 10% dive into competitive titles like PUBG Mobile, showing that Indian women are diverse in their gaming interests.
Women Driving Game Development
They are not just playing games; they're making them. Though they currently represent only 15% of the game development workforce, their influence is growing, driven by education, entrepreneurship, and global trends.
From Classroom to Code - More women are entering game development, thanks to specialized courses and initiatives like Unity Women in Gaming. Enrollment in these programs has jumped by 30% in two years, paving the way for more female developers.
Startups Leading the Charge- Companies like Apar Games, led by women such as Laxmi Khanolkar, are pushing boundaries, creating games that resonate with a wide audience. These startups not only innovate but also inspire, providing role models for aspiring female developers.
The Power of Influence - Women Streamers and Creators
The gaming world isn’t just about playing; it’s about sharing. Female streamers and influencers are building massive followings, creating content that entertains and empowers.
Building Communities - Influencers like Payal Gaming and Mili Kya Mili —they're icons with millions of followers. Viewership of female-led gaming content grew by 50% in 2023, showing that people want diverse voices and perspectives, with a 40% increase in brand partnerships.
Leveling Up the Playing Field
Women in gaming still face issues like gender bias, harassment, and under-representation.
1. Harassment is a major issue, platforms need to step up with better moderation and support systems to make gaming a safe space for all.
2. Representation matters. Less than 10% of gaming companies in India have women in leadership roles.
The increasing involvement of women in gaming is not just a trend—it’s a movement that’s reshaping the industry, they’re not just playing the game; they’re changing it.
PS - The image shows frequency of online gaming in India, by gender
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