Gaming Careers on the Rise in India as Esports Industry Booms

According to a new study, the gaming industry in India is experiencing significant growth, bringing more career opportunities and higher earnings for Indian gamers. The HP India Gaming Landscape Study 2023 surveyed 3,000 gamers and 500 parents across 15 major cities to understand trends in the gaming community.

A key finding was that gamers are increasingly motivated to play for fun and make money. Nearly half of serious gamers surveyed reported earning between Rs. 6-12 lakh annually from gaming in 2023, showing earnings are rising compared to 2022.

Sponsorships and esports tournaments have emerged as major income sources, highlighting the growing commercial side of gaming. Many gamers also aspire to careers in content creation, esports management, and other gaming-related fields.

The study reveals shifting attitudes among parents, too. Around 42% now approve of gaming as a hobby, with 40% reporting their views have become more positive in recent years due to the maturing industry.

However, parents still have concerns about job security and social isolation in gaming careers. Many also lack information, with 49% relying on word-of-mouth over formal sources.

Gaming has a broad-based appeal with keen interest coming from metros and smaller cities, men and women, with Gen Z and Millennials particularly. With opportunities expanding, HP has launched various initiatives to help gamers develop skills, including free online courses and Omen Playground gaming centres across the country.