India’s burgeoning gaming industry has taken a significant step forward with the formation of the Indian Game Publishers and Developers Association (IGPDA). This new body aims to unite game creators, bolster policy advocacy, and elevate India’s status as a global gaming and esports hub. The IGPDA’s launch signifies a unified effort by leading Indian game studios and publishers to champion original, Made-in-India intellectual property (IP) and foster talent within the broader Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR) ecosystem.
Key Takeaways
- Formation of the Indian Game Publishers and Developers Association (IGPDA).
- Goal to promote original Made-in-India IP and global-scale titles.
- Maharashtra proposed as the first strategic state partner to develop Mumbai into a gaming hub.
- Association includes major players like Nazara Technologies, Gametion, nCore Games, and Reliance Games.
- IGPDA aims to strengthen the AVGC-XR ecosystem and talent development.
A Unified Voice for Indian Gaming
The IGPDA has been established to provide a singular, powerful voice for the country’s game publishers and developers. This initiative comes in the wake of new online gaming legislation, aiming to create a more structured and supportive environment for the industry. By bringing together key stakeholders, the association intends to drive growth, innovation, and international recognition for Indian-developed games.
Championing Made-in-India IP
A core objective of the IGPDA is to champion the creation and promotion of original intellectual property developed within India. This includes integrating Indian stories and cultural elements into gaming experiences, thereby creating content that resonates both domestically and globally. Companies like Nazara Technologies, with its focus on IP-led growth, and SuperGaming, which has demonstrated the global appeal of Indian-made games with titles like Indus Battle Royale, are at the forefront of this movement.
Strategic Partnership with Maharashtra
The association has identified Maharashtra as its inaugural strategic state partner. The plan involves collaborating with the state government to transform Mumbai into a premier global gaming hub. This vision includes attracting international investment, providing supportive policies, and developing world-class infrastructure to nurture the gaming sector.
Industry Support and Vision
Leading companies such as Nazara Technologies, Gametion (Ludo King), nCore Games (FAU-G: Domination), Reliance Games (WWE Mayhem), and SuperGaming (Indus Battle Royale) are among the founding members of the IGPDA. Their collective aim is to foster an environment where Indian creativity can thrive on a global scale, ensuring sustainable long-term value creation within the domestic industry. The association’s structure is designed to encompass developers, publishers, platform providers, tool creators, educational institutions, and investors, ensuring comprehensive representation across the entire value chain.
