India Mobile Game Insights 2025 — Homegrown Hits Drive 8.45B Downloads

India continues to hold its position as the world’s largest mobile gaming market by downloads, with an impressive 8.45 billion installs in FY 2024-25. This momentum—driven by affordable data, widespread smartphone access, and a young, tech-savvy audience (77% aged 18-34)—underscores India’s importance for growth. However, while downloads remain strong, IAP revenue stands at just over $400 million—still modest compared to mature markets, but steadily growing year over year. With the rapid adoption of digital payments like UPI and a rising base of high-value iOS users, India’s monetization potential is showing clear signs of acceleration.

Note: The download data in this report are based on estimated downloads from the App Store and Google Play, excluding pre-installs, re-downloads, and downloads from third-party Android marketplaces. Google Play is not available in Mainland China.

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India’s Top Genres: Tabletop Games Lead Downloads, While Shooter and Strategy Drive Revenue 

In India, genres like Simulation, Arcade, Puzzle, and culturally resonant Tabletop board games capture huge download volumes, thanks to their simple, familiar gameplay that resonates with India’s family-focused gaming culture. In contrast, IAP revenue is dominated by competitive genres—Shooter, Casino, and Strategy—where deep engagement, strategic depth, and social features drive sustained spending. For publishers, this highlights the importance of balancing broad, casual appeal with effective monetization strategies to tap into India’s growing segment of high-value, competitive gamers.

Downloads in India continue to be dominated by casual subgenres such as Simulation (Driving/Flight Simulator) and Arcade (Platformer/Runner), reflecting a strong local preference for easy-to-play, familiar games. Tabletop board games also perform well, with Ludo King remaining a consistent favorite.

On the revenue side, competitive subgenres like Shooter (Battle Royale) command the largest share, while Realistic Sports and 4X Strategy are also on the rise. Games like Free Fire, eFootball and Whiteout Survival illustrate this shift, highlighting India’s evolving monetization landscape and deepening player engagement.

India’s Top Mobile Games: Local Hits Top Downloads, While Shooters and Strategy Lead Revenue

India’s download charts in FY 2024-25 were led by Gametion's Ludo King, affirming the dominance of localized tabletop games. Garena’s shooter Free Fire held strong at #2, while other top performers included Dream 11 and Cricket League, showcasing a diverse market that blends traditional pastimes with popular core genres.

India's revenue landscape is dominated by core games, with Battle Royales Garena Free Fire and Battlegrounds Mobile India (PUBG MOBILE) leading the charts. Global hits like Coin Master and Clash of Clans also rank high, proving that long-term player engagement and effective monetization are the primary drivers of revenue.

Ludo King: A Cultural Phenomenon

Ludo King stands out not just as a top download but as a cultural icon in India’s gaming scene. By transforming a beloved tabletop game into a social, accessible digital experience, Ludo King bridges generations and communities. Its multiplayer features, live voice chat, and engaging design tap into India’s social gaming culture, fostering both nostalgia and modern connectivity. With over 1.25 billion downloads, Ludo King exemplifies how culturally relevant design can drive long-term success in India’s mobile gaming market.

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India's Game Publishers: Strengthening Domestic Leadership and Expanding Globally

India’s mobile game publishers are also making their mark on the global stage. While companies like Gametion (Ludo King) and Dream11  continue to lead in the domestic market, publishers such as Gameberry Labs and Playsimple Games are expanding their international presence. Notably, the United States, Saudi Arabia, and the United Kingdom have become significant revenue contributors for these publishers—demonstrating their ability to create games that resonate with global audiences while staying rooted in local appeal.

Looking Ahead: The Future of India Mobile Gaming

As the Indian gaming market matures, the challenge for publishers will be to balance mass-market appeal with strategies that encourage deeper engagement and monetization. With a young, highly engaged audience, increasing digital payment adoption, and a diverse genre landscape, India represents a vibrant opportunity for both local and global players to innovate, expand, and capture growth.

For a detailed look at India’s mobile gaming market trends, genre breakdowns, and publisher insights, download the full report below.