The top 10 gaming startups in India that are transforming the gaming landscape with innovative technologies, immersive experiences, and captivating content. Discover the leaders driving the future of gaming in India.
India’s gaming industry has been growing rapidly over the past few years, driven by a young population, increasing smartphone penetration, affordable internet, and a surge in digital content consumption. This growth has created fertile ground for gaming startups, which are tapping into this burgeoning market with innovative products and services.
Table of Contents
1.Dream11
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Dream11 |
| Founded | 2008 |
| Founders | Harsh Jain, Bhavit Sheth |
| Headquarters | Mumbai, India |
| Key Products | Fantasy sports platform (cricket, football, basketball, etc.) |
| User Base | Millions of users |
| Website | dream11.com |
Dream11 is a leading fantasy sports platform that allows users to create virtual teams for cricket, football, basketball, and other sports. Founded in 2008 by Harsh Jain and Bhavit Sheth, the platform has grown to have millions of users. Dream11 operates on a freemium model, where users can join free or paid contests to win cash prizes. The platform gained significant attention for its association with the Indian Premier League (IPL) and other major sports leagues.
Key Highlights:
- Fantasy Sports: Cricket, football, basketball, kabaddi, and more.
- User Engagement: Millions of active users.
- Revenue Model: Freemium with paid contests.
- Legal Status: Legal in most Indian states except those with strict gambling laws.
2.Nazara Technologies
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Nazara Technologies |
| Founded | 2000 |
| Founder | Nitish Mittersain |
| Headquarters | Mumbai, India |
| Key Products | Interactive gaming, esports, gamified early learning |
| Market Presence | India and emerging markets |
| Website | nazara.com |
Nazara Technologies, founded in 2000 by Nitish Mittersain, is a prominent gaming and sports media platform in India. The company focuses on interactive gaming, esports, and gamified early learning. With a presence in over 60 countries, Nazara has developed and published a wide range of games, including popular titles like “Chhota Bheem” and “Motu Patlu.” The company is publicly traded and has made several strategic acquisitions to strengthen its portfolio.
Key Highlights:
- Diverse Offerings: Interactive gaming, esports, early learning.
- Market Reach: Presence in over 60 countries.
- Popular Games: “Chhota Bheem” series, “Motu Patlu” series.
- Public Listing: Traded on Indian stock exchanges.
3.MPL (Mobile Premier League)
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Mobile Premier League (MPL) |
| Founded | 2018 |
| Founders | Sai Srinivas, Shubham Malhotra |
| Headquarters | Bengaluru, India |
| Key Products | Mobile gaming platform with a variety of games |
| User Base | Millions of users |
| Website | mpl.live |
Mobile Premier League (MPL) is a popular mobile gaming platform that offers a variety of games, including fantasy sports, casual games, and esports. Founded in 2018 by Sai Srinivas and Shubham Malhotra, MPL has quickly gained a large user base. Users can compete in games to win cash prizes. MPL is available on both Android and iOS platforms and is known for its user-friendly interface and wide game selection.
Key Highlights:
- Game Variety: Fantasy sports, casual games, esports.
- User Base: Millions of active users.
- Platforms: Android and iOS.
- Revenue Model: In-app purchases and entry fees for cash prizes.
4.Zupee
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Zupee |
| Founded | 2018 |
| Founders | Dilsher Singh Malhi, Siddhant Saurabh |
| Headquarters | Gurugram, India |
| Key Products | Real-money quiz games and trivia contests |
| User Base | Growing user base |
| Website | zupee.com |
Zupee is a real-money gaming platform that specializes in quiz games and trivia contests. Launched in 2018 by Dilsher Singh Malhi and Siddhant Saurabh, Zupee offers a unique gaming experience where users can participate in various quiz contests to win cash prizes. The platform focuses on providing a fun and rewarding experience through its engaging quizzes on a wide range of topics.
Key Highlights:
- Specialization: Quiz games and trivia contests.
- User Engagement: Growing user base with active participation.
- Legal Status: Operates legally in most parts of India.
- Revenue Model: Entry fees for quiz contests.
5.WinZO Games
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | WinZO Games |
| Founded | 2018 |
| Founders | Paavan Nanda, Saumya Singh Rathore |
| Headquarters | New Delhi, India |
| Key Products | Real-money games in various genres |
| User Base | Growing user base |
| Website | winzogames.com |
WinZO Games is a social gaming platform offering real-money games in multiple genres, including arcade, casual, and strategy games. Founded in 2018 by Paavan Nanda and Saumya Singh Rathore, WinZO has created a vibrant gaming ecosystem with over 70 games. Users can compete in these games to win cash prizes, and the platform is available on both Android and iOS devices.
Key Highlights:
- Game Genres: Arcade, casual, strategy games.
- User Base: Active and growing user community.
- Platforms: Android and iOS.
- Revenue Model: Entry fees for cash contests and in-app purchases.
6.Octro
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Octro |
| Founded | 2006 |
| Founder | Saurabh Aggarwal |
| Headquarters | New Delhi, India |
| Key Products | Card games like Teen Patti, Indian Rummy |
| User Base | Large user base |
| Website | octro.com |
Octro is a gaming company best known for its popular card games like Teen Patti and Indian Rummy. Founded in 2006 by Saurabh Aggarwal, Octro has established itself as a leader in the digital card game space. The company’s games are widely played and appreciated for their authentic gameplay experience. Octro’s games are available on both Android and iOS platforms and have a significant user base.
Key Highlights:
- Popular Games: Teen Patti, Indian Rummy.
- User Engagement: Large and loyal user base.
- Platforms: Android and iOS.
- Revenue Model: In-app purchases and advertisements.
7.Gala Games
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Gala Games |
| Founded | 2020 |
| Founders | Eric Schiermeyer, Michael McCarthy |
| Headquarters | San Francisco, USA |
| Key Products | Blockchain-based gaming ecosystem |
| User Base | Growing user base |
| Website | galagames.com |
Gala Games is a blockchain-based gaming company that is creating a decentralized gaming ecosystem. Founded in 2020 by Eric Schiermeyer and Michael McCarthy, Gala Games aims to give players ownership and control over their in-game assets using blockchain technology. The platform offers various games where players can earn, trade, and own assets. Gala Games is part of the broader trend of integrating blockchain with gaming to create new economic models.
Key Highlights:
- Blockchain Integration: Decentralized gaming ecosystem.
- Player Ownership: In-game asset ownership and trading.
- Founded By: Eric Schiermeyer (co-founder of Zynga).
- Key Technology: Ethereum blockchain.
8.Gamezop
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Gamezop |
| Founded | 2015 |
| Founders | Gaurav Agarwal, Yashash Agarwal |
| Headquarters | New Delhi, India |
| Key Products | Instant gaming platform |
| User Base | Growing user base |
| Website | gamezop.com |
Gamezop is an instant gaming platform that integrates games directly into websites and apps, allowing users to play games without downloading them. Founded in 2015 by Gaurav Agarwal and Yashash Agarwal, Gamezop provides a diverse range of games, including puzzles, action, strategy, and arcade games. The platform is designed to enhance user engagement for partner websites and apps.
Key Highlights:
- Instant Gaming: No downloads required.
- Game Variety: Puzzles, action, strategy, arcade games.
- Business Model: Integration with websites and apps.
- User Base: Growing user engagement through partners.
9.Nodding Heads Games
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Nodding Heads Games |
| Founded | 2017 |
| Founders | Avichal Singh, Ian Maude, Shruti Ghosh, Pratik Ghanshani |
| Headquarters | Pune, India |
| Key Products | Visually stunning, narrative-driven games |
| Notable Game | Raji: An Ancient Epic |
| Website | noddingheadsgames.com |
Nodding Heads Games is an indie game development studio known for creating visually stunning and narrative-driven games. Founded in 2017 by Avichal Singh, Ian Maude, Shruti Ghosh, and Pratik Ghanshani, the studio’s most notable game is “Raji: An Ancient Epic,” which has received critical acclaim for its art and storytelling. The studio focuses on producing high-quality games that explore rich narratives and cultural themes.
Key Highlights:
- Notable Game: Raji: An Ancient Epic.
- Focus: Visually stunning, narrative-driven games.
- Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch.
- Studio Location: Pune, India.
10.Lucid Labs
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Lucid Labs |
| Founded | 2014 |
| Founder | Arvind Raja Yadav |
| Headquarters | New Delhi, India |
| Key Products | Unique and artistic games with engaging storytelling |
| Notable Games | Possessions, A Street Cat’s Tale |
| Website | lucidlabs.in |
Lucid Labs is a game development studio that focuses on creating unique and artistic games with engaging storytelling. Founded in 2014 by Arvind Raja Yadav, Lucid Labs has produced notable games like “Possessions” and “A Street Cat’s Tale.” The studio is known for its emphasis on artistic visuals and immersive narratives, making its games stand out in the indie gaming scene.
Key Highlights:
- Notable Games: Possessions, A Street Cat’s Tale.
- Focus: Unique, artistic games with strong storytelling.
- Platforms: PC, mobile, consoles.
- Studio Location: New Delhi, India.
FAQS about Top 10 Gaming Startups in India
Dream11
What is Dream11?
- Dream11 is a fantasy sports platform where users can create virtual teams from real-life players and earn points based on their performance in actual matches.
How does Dream11 work?
- Users select players to form a team within a budget, join contests, and earn points based on the actual performance of players in real matches. The team with the highest points wins.
Is Dream11 legal in India?
- Yes, Dream11 is legal in most parts of India, except a few states where fantasy sports are considered gambling.
How can I withdraw my winnings from Dream11?
- You can withdraw your winnings through bank transfer or other supported payment methods after verifying your account.
What sports are available on Dream11?
- Dream11 offers fantasy leagues for cricket, football, basketball, hockey, kabaddi, and more.
Nazara Technologies
What does Nazara Technologies do?
- Nazara Technologies is a diversified gaming and sports media platform focusing on interactive gaming, esports, and gamified early learning.
Where are Nazara Technologies based?
- Nazara Technologies is headquartered in Mumbai, India.
What are some popular games by Nazara Technologies?
- Popular games include “Chhota Bheem” series, “Motu Patlu” series, and various esports and mobile games.
Is Nazara Technologies publicly traded?
- Yes, Nazara Technologies is listed on the Indian stock exchanges.
Does Nazara Technologies operate globally?
- Yes, Nazara has a presence in over 60 countries, focusing on emerging markets.
MPL (Mobile Premier League)
What is MPL?
- MPL is a mobile gaming platform that offers a wide variety of games where users can compete and earn money.
How do I start playing on MPL?
- Download the MPL app, register, and start playing your preferred games to win cash prizes.
Is MPL available for both Android and iOS?
- Yes, MPL is available on both Android and iOS platforms.
What types of games are available on MPL?
- MPL offers fantasy sports, casual games, arcade games, and more.
How do I withdraw my earnings from MPL?
- You can withdraw your earnings through bank transfer, UPI, or other available payment methods.
Zupee
What is Zupee?
- Zupee is a real-money gaming platform offering quiz games and trivia contests.
How can I play games on Zupee?
- Download the Zupee app, sign up, and start participating in quiz contests to win money.
Is Zupee legal in India?
- Yes, Zupee operates legally in India, though it might be restricted in some states where real-money gaming is not allowed.
What kind of quizzes are available on Zupee?
- Zupee offers quizzes on various topics, including general knowledge, sports, entertainment, and more.
How do I withdraw my winnings from Zupee?
- Winnings can be withdrawn through bank transfers, UPI, and other supported methods.
WinZO Games
What is WinZO Games?
- WinZO Games is a social gaming platform offering real-money games in various genres.
How do I start playing on WinZO Games?
- Download the WinZO Games app, create an account, and choose your preferred games to play and win money.
What types of games are available on WinZO?
- WinZO offers arcade games, casual games, strategy games, and esports.
Is WinZO Games available on both Android and iOS?
- Yes, WinZO is available on both Android and iOS platforms.
How do I withdraw my earnings from WinZO Games?
- Earnings can be withdrawn through bank transfers, UPI, and other available payment methods.
Octro
What is Octro?
- Octro is a gaming company known for its popular card games like Teen Patti and Indian Rummy.
How can I play Octro games?
- Download Octro’s games from app stores, install them, and start playing.
Are Octro games free to play?
- Many Octro games are free to play with optional in-app purchases.
Which platforms are Octro games available on?
- Octro games are available on Android and iOS platforms.
Does Octro offer multiplayer games?
- Yes, Octro offers multiplayer card games where players can compete with others online.
Gala Games
What is Gala Games?
- Gala Games is a blockchain-based gaming company developing a decentralized gaming ecosystem.
How do Gala Games work?
- Gala Games allows players to own and control their in-game assets using blockchain technology.
Can I earn money with Gala Games?
- Yes, players can earn money by trading in-game assets and participating in the game’s economy.
Which blockchain does Gala Games use?
- Gala Games primarily uses the Ethereum blockchain for its games.
Are Gala Games free to play?
- Some Gala Games are free to play, while others may require purchases of in-game assets.
Gamezop
What is Gamezop?
- Gamezop is an instant gaming platform that integrates games directly into websites and apps.
How do I play games on Gamezop?
- Access Gamezop through partner websites or apps and start playing without the need for downloads.
What types of games are available on Gamezop?
- Gamezop offers a variety of games, including puzzles, action, strategy, and arcade games.
Is Gamezop free to use?
- Yes, Gamezop is free to use with optional in-game advertisements.
Can I earn rewards on Gamezop?
- Yes, Gamezop often has reward-based games and tournaments where players can win prizes.
Nodding Heads Games
What is Nodding Heads Games?
- Nodding Heads Games is an indie game development studio known for visually stunning and narrative-driven games.
What are some notable games by Nodding Heads Games?
- Notable games include “Raji: An Ancient Epic.”
Where is Nodding Heads, Games based?
- The studio is based in Pune, India.
Are Nodding Heads Games available on multiple platforms?
- Yes, their games are available on platforms like PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.
How can I purchase games by Nodding Heads Games?
- Their games can be purchased through digital storefronts like Steam, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, and Nintendo eShop.
Lucid Labs
What is Lucid Labs?
- Lucid Labs is a game development studio focusing on creating unique and artistic games with engaging storytelling.
What are some notable games by Lucid Labs?
- Notable games include “Possessions” and “A Street Cat’s Tale.”
Where is Lucid Labs based?
- The studio is based in New Delhi, India.
Are Lucid Labs games available on multiple platforms?
- Yes, their games are available on platforms like PC, mobile, and consoles.
How can I purchase games by Lucid Labs?
- Their games can be purchased through digital storefronts like Steam, Google Play Store, Apple App Store, and other relevant platforms.
