India has immense potential to be a global esports leader: Parth Chadha

The Indian gaming industry has seen a massive surge in recent years, driven by factors such as increased mobile phone penetration, affordable smartphones, and the growing popularity of internet-based entertainment. As gaming has evolved from a niche pastime to a mainstream activity, it is now viewed not only as a form of entertainment but also a viable career path. The rise of esports, mobile gaming, and localized content has created an ecosystem ripe for growth, and India is rapidly becoming one of the largest gaming markets globally.

In this interaction, Parth Chadha, Co-Founder and CEO of STAN, shares insights into how the platform is capitalizing on the rapid growth of the Indian gaming market. He discusses STAN's approach to empowering creators, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, and highlights how the platform is leveraging mobile-first solutions and Web3 technologies like blockchain and NFTs to create new opportunities. Parth also elaborates on the role of AI, the future of cloud gaming, and how STAN is ensuring user data security amidst rising cyber threats.

What are the primary factors driving the exponential growth of the Indian gaming market? How is STAN positioned to capitalize on this growth and meet the evolving needs of Indian gamers?

The exponential growth and penetration of the gaming market in the country is fueled by the growth of the Internet and mobile phone users, affordable smartphones, and localised content. There has also been a cultural shift towards gaming as both entertainment and career. STAN is at the forefront of this revolution, providing a robust platform for Indian gamers and game developers to participate in the evolving landscape and further accelerate its growth. By creating an equitable space for creators and gamers to build their communities and monetize from an early stage, STAN is addressing the evolving needs of Indian gamers and empowering them to build their careers in the field they love.

How is STAN empowering Indian creators, especially those from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, to monetize their content and build sustainable careers?

Tier 2 and 3 cities have witnessed explosive growth in mobile gaming and have rapidly ascended to the top. At STAN too, Tier 2 & Tier 3 cities have surpassed metro cities, now constituting 70% share of our gamer base.  And hence, STANs approach is tailored for these smaller markets by simplifying their growth through tools, and exposure that help them develop engaging content, grow their audience and monetize effectively. Many of these gamers also face difficulty in setting up wallets or navigating decentralised systems.

STAN’s social-login driven wallet helps the gamers by easing this complex process. Gamers can sign up with their existing social accounts and instantly get onboarded on the chain. Also, STAN’s robust framework allows gamers to earn tangible rewards for the time they spend gaming, watching ads or for their in-game achievements. This not only fosters satisfaction but also loyalty.

How is STAN leveraging mobile-first solutions to provide a seamless gaming experience? What are the advantages of a mobile-first approach in the Indian context?

STAN’s platform is optimized for mobile devices to cater to the emerging mobile-heavy markets like India. Our mobile-first design ensures gamers can connect anywhere, even in low network regions, with cutting-edge technology and rewards them for their contributions, enhancing their experience. We are building close-knit clubs for enhanced community engagement and deeper connection.

To cater to diverse preferences, we have also opened up multiple earning streams, such as gifts, passes, and targeted advertisements. By emphasising on popular titles like BGMI and Free Fire, we are aligning our offerings to local communities. We have also worked on simplifying the onboarding process with streamlined club setup with just one referral. We are dedicated to empowering creators with global reach, specialised tools, and insights for audience engagement.

How do you see the future of cloud gaming in India?

As per Bloomberg Intelligence, India is one of the largest markets for cloud gaming and is expected to become the industry leader by 2033. With the acceleration of internet infrastructure, cheaper data plans and 5G deployment, the need for high-end devices is being eliminated. This makes gaming more accessible and affordable to a broader audience. Based on such industry trends, cloud gaming holds immense potential in India and can be a game-changer for the mobile-heavy markets.

How do you see Web3 technologies, such as blockchain and NFTs, impacting the future of gaming?

Web3 technologies are redefining gaming and solving inefficiencies in the gaming ecosystem. With integration of advanced blockchain technologies and NFTs in gaming, gamers get access to true ownership of their assets and more transparency and security in transactions. Hence, Web3 is not only  instilling loyalty and satisfaction among the gamers, but creating globally connected gaming communities. At STAN, we have collaborated with Web3 giants like Okto and Aptos to expand our offerings, optimize user engagement, and set new benchmarks for innovation in the Web3 gaming industry.

How can AI and generative AI be used to enhance the gaming experience and create new gaming opportunities?

Artificial intelligence (AI) can transform the gaming industry, making virtual worlds more immersive, interactive, and personalized than ever before. Also, with AI upgradation and improvements in PC and mobile performance, AI is offering benefits that extend not only to players but also to the creators.

What measures is STAN taking to ensure the privacy and security of user data, especially in light of increasing concerns about data breaches and cyber threats?

At STAN, we believe that users’ data is their own, and our role is to help bring that data together in one place to empower them. By consolidating this information securely, we enable users to better monetize and utilize their data to its full potential. Through blockchain-backed transparency, robust encryption, and regular security audits, we ensure that user data remains safe and accessible only to them. Privacy isn’t just a feature at STAN – it’s a principle we uphold every step of the way.

How can India foster a more robust esports ecosystem to compete with other global esports powerhouses?

India has immense potential to be a global esports leader. To realize this, the ecosystem needs cohesive collaboration between stakeholders – game developers, platforms like STAN, government bodies, and creators. Investments in infrastructure, grassroots programs, and creator-focused platforms can drive engagement and nurture talent. At STAN, we focus on empowering creators and fostering communities that bridge casual and professional gaming, creating opportunities for monetization and skill development. Together, we can position India as a true esports powerhouse.