The 'State of India Gaming Report' by Lumikai, backed by Google, provides valuable insights into the gaming landscape in India. The survey covered 2317 Indian mobile gamers that revealed valuable insights into their habits and motivations. The most unexpected finding of the report, though, is that 41 per cent of Indian gamers are women. This is a significant change from the traditional perception of gaming as a male-dominated interest. The study also shows how quickly non-metropolitan areas are adopting gaming, with 66 per cent of all gamers, a significant increase from 57 per cent last year in the respective field. Therefore, the idea that gaming is only an urban activity is being challenged.
Despite advancements, women gamers still encounter numerous challenges. Unfair opportunities, harassment, and stereotypes are still present. Women's restricted access to smartphones is one major obstacle. Numerous participants reported using mobile games as a means of socializing or unwinding. Candy Crush, Temple Run, and Ludo King are a few of the well-known casual games. Unfortunately, those without phones lack these fun games.
Even while the gaming industry as a whole is improving, there is still a significant gender gap in e-sports. Out of 500 e-sports athletes in Hangzhou, there were only 8 female participants. Furthermore, there were no female players on the 15-person Indian squad. Even with the efforts to encourage diversity and equal opportunity, underrepresentation in e-sports persists.
