Digital platforms are undoubtedly the Next Big Thing in the mainstream entertainment industry today. In today’s tech-driven era, everything has transitioned to online platforms, be it shopping, dining, payments, movies, social interactions- you name it and it’s already there! And this trend is only here to stay, with TRAI (Telecom Regulatory Authority of India) indicating how the country had 936.16 million internet subscribers by end-2023 itself. Of course, a large part has to do with shifting consumer preferences, which are more inclined towards online gaming, social media, streaming services, and on-the-move entertainment.
Talking of digital platforms, the biggest trend that is visible currently, is the rapid growth of online gaming platforms. Digital gaming has in fact overshadowed other entertainment forms like television, movies, and even physical board games. Be it multiplayer games and competitions or casual/social games like dedicated rummy apps, they are all making waves in the market today.
Online Gaming Platforms Make Huge Impact
From A23 rummy to other digital platforms for hyper-casual, social, competitive, and multiplayer games, they are undoubtedly creating a massive impact in the entertainment landscape today. Here are a few factors worth noting in this regard.
- The rapid adoption of digital gaming platforms has a lot to do with higher smartphone adoption, high-speed internet services, easy access to these platforms, and other trends. In fact, 5G connectivity and more advanced streaming will be a huge boost for the sector going forward.
- Unlike traditional media forms, online gaming platforms offer more interactive, immersive, personalized, and enjoyable experiences for users. They are often backed by technologies like AI, AR, VR, and blockchain to ensure secure yet fun gaming.
- Users relish the combination of skills and luck in several games as offered by rummy apps or other classic options which have now transitioned to digital formats. Strategy-based and real-money games are also in huge demand.
- The opportunity to be a part of a wider gaming community is another demand driver behind the growth of digital platforms. Users enjoy the chance to connect and play with like-minded gamers and their loved ones, while engaging in real-time.
- Many of these platforms have grown due to the rapid proliferation of gaming communities and groups formed by players. This community feeling also extends to tournaments and contests which now have attractive prizes/rewards on offer.
The Rise of Digital Platforms is a Foregone Conclusion
With more than 450 million active gamers in the country as per a FICCI-EY report and 100 million playing each day, digital platforms are set to reap the benefits of a younger, more tech-savvy, and experimental demographic.
This section loves immersive and engaging experiences while desiring aspects like attractive graphics, personalized user experiences, community-building features, and skill-based game formats. In fact, there are several game genres that are ruling the roost currently, including online card games, adventure games, and even action titles. The industry itself could touch INR 41,023.1 crore in revenues by 2025, which indicates huge growth and a large part of this will be driven by digital gaming platforms.