Bengaluru GAFX 2025 Kicks Off with ‘Future of Immersion’ Theme

Bengaluru GAFX 2025 Kicks Off with ‘Future of Immersion’ Theme

Bengaluru, 27th February 2025: Bengaluru GAFX 2025, India’s largest and most influential Bengaluru GAFX 2025 Conference, commenced today at The Lalit Ashok, Bengaluru, and will run from February 27th to March 1st, 2025. Organized by the Department of Electronics, IT & BT, Government of Karnataka, in collaboration with ABAI, the event reinforces Bengaluru’s position as the world’s leading hub for AVGC-XR and a key driver of India’s global leadership in immersive media and entertainment.

The grand inauguration witnessed the esteemed presence of Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Rural Development, Panchayat Raj, and IT & BT, Government of Karnataka, alongside key industry leaders and policymakers driving the future of immersive storytelling. The event had the privilege of welcoming Mr. Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India, as the Special Guest of Honour.

Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Rural Development, Panchayat Raj, and IT & BT, Government of Karnataka
Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Rural Development, Panchayat Raj, and IT & BT, Government of Karnataka

Among the distinguished attendees were Dr. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson & Founder, Biocon Limited; Shri Rizwan Arshad, Member of Karnataka Legislative Assembly; Shri Sharath Bachegowda, MLA & Chairman, KEONICS; Mr. Marc Lamy, Consul General of France, Bengaluru; Ms. Hilary McGeachy, Consul General of Australia, Bengaluru; Mr. Alfonso Tagliaferri, Consul General of Italy, Bengaluru; Mr. Nitish Mittersain, CEO & MD, Nazara Technologies; Mr. Ashish Kulkarni, Founder & CEO, Punnaryug Artvision Pvt. Ltd.; Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT, BT & S&T, Government of Karnataka; Mr. Sai Srinivas Kiran Garimella, Co-founder, MPL; Shri Rahul Sharanappa Sankanur, IAS, Director, Department of Electronics, IT & BT, Government of Karnataka; Shri Daljeet Kumar, IAS, Deputy Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT, BT & S&T, Government of Karnataka; and Mr. Biren Ghose, Chairman, Bengaluru GAFX & President, ABAI.

With the theme “Future of Immersion: EXPERIENCE. EXPLORE. DISRUPT.”, GAFX 2025, champions its commitment to furthering the frontiers of creativity and technology. Attendees will experience the power of immersive technologies in storytelling, from real-time rendering breakthroughs to the transformative potential of virtual and augmented reality. As a premier platform, GAFX 2025 will bring together global thought leaders, visionary creatives, and cutting-edge innovations, fostering collaboration and shaping the future of the industry.

A patron of Bengaluru GAFX 2025, Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology & Biotechnology and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, Govt. of Karnataka said “This event holds significance not just for the government of Karnataka but for the entire nation. Our professionals are not just contributing to global projects—they are leading them, bringing unique perspectives and unmatched expertise to the forefront.  In animation and visual effects, Indian artists are instrumental in delivering cutting-edge visuals for domestic and international productions. Our contributions have garnered global acclaim, positioning India as a hub of high-quality animation and VFX services.

Despite the central government’s 28% GST, we remain the fastest-growing market in the gaming sector, achieving an impressive 23% year-on-year growth. By the end of the 2024 financial year, we are set to reach $3.8 billion. Looking ahead, I hope to see Karnataka host its own national e-sports festival this year, with the vision of creating the country’s—and possibly Asia’s—largest e-sports event.”

“Karnataka has always been at the forefront of technology and digital innovation, and our leadership in AVGC-XR continues to shape the industry. Home to over 300 AVGC studios and 15,000+ professionals, Karnataka contributes significantly to India’s digital content revolution. We were the first state to introduce an AVGC-XR policy in 2012, and our third five-year policy, announced last year, strengthened this sector with production grants, tax incentives, and skill development initiatives. With India’s 500 million gamers, Karnataka leads with the highest number of gaming startups, positioning Bengaluru as the hub for next-gen game development. Our AVGC-XR fund, the first of its kind in India, supports startups and SMEs with investments up to ₹2 crore. Additionally, we are setting up India’s first AVGC-XR Park, offering production studios, incubation spaces, and research facilities. By 2029, we aim for a 30% increase in operational efficiency, a 20% boost in creative output, and a 25% expansion in digital marketing reach. GAFX 2025 reflects this vision, bringing together industry leaders, professionals, and students. Let’s collaborate, innovate, and strengthen Karnataka’s position as the global capital for AVGC-XR excellence.” – said Dr. Ekroop Caur, Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT, Bt, Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Mr. Biren Ghose, Chairman, Bengaluru GAFX & President, ABAI said, “Storytelling is evolving beyond screens into immersive experiences that redefine how we engage with content. Just as astronomers explore the cosmos, we are visionaries shaping the visual language of tomorrow. Disruption isn’t an obstacle—it’s a catalyst, much like black holes and supernovae giving birth to new creations in the universe. Bengaluru stands at the heart of this transformation, where technology, artistry, and innovation unite to take India to the world and bring the world to India. From animation and gaming to AR, VR, and beyond, we are forging global alliances, building billion-dollar franchises, and nurturing the talent that will drive the next era of entertainment. This isn’t just ambition—it’s a roadmap. The seeds are sown, and the wave of change is here. Welcome to the future of immersion.”

Bengaluru GAFX is a premier event in the AVGC industry, serving as a vital platform for collaboration between Indian and global talent. The event brings together leading international and domestic studios, along with industry veterans, to showcase some of the most acclaimed and high-profile titles. By fostering cross-industry synergy, GAFX continues to drive innovation and excellence in the animation, visual effects, gaming, and comics landscape.

Key Highlights of Bengaluru GAFX 2025

  • Unveiling a Landmark Collaboration:Cine star Rana Daggubati, known for his role in Baahubali and a strong advocate for Indian storytelling, will unveil an exciting partnership between Zebu Animation and Tinkle, bringing India’s iconic comics to life through cutting-edge animation.
  • India Pavilion:A first-of-its-kind showcase of AVGC talent from across Karnataka, Rajasthan, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Goa, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Assam, fostering regional co-production and collaboration.
  • Esports National Championship:India’s top 4 esports teams from different zones will battle it out in the Counter-Strike 2 grand finale, bringing high-energy gaming action to GAFX 2025.
  • Investor Connect:Over 25  leading investors will engage with 50 AVGC-XR startups, offering exclusive opportunities for funding and mentorship.
  • Spotlight on Indian Comics:Tinkle, Amar Chitra Katha, Raj Comics, and Pran Studios will discuss the future of Indian comics, their potential to generate original IPs, and their influence on the media industry.
  • AI & AVGC-XR Convergence:Experts from Deloitte, Autodesk, AMD, Nvidia, Myelin Foundry, and Adobe will explore the impact of AI in content creation, virtual production, and immersive experiences.
  • Startups Innovation Zone:AVGC startups from Karnataka’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) will showcase groundbreaking work, offering a glimpse into the future of the AVGC-XR industry.
  • Strengthening International Alliances:The Karnataka Government will establish a Global Innovation Alliance (GIA), bringing together France, Australia, the UK, Scotland, Uzbekistan, and Italy to foster global collaborations in AVGC-XR.

With an expected footfall exceeding 20,000 attendees, world-class speakers, immersive showcases, and disruptive innovations, Bengaluru GAFX 2025 is set to elevate India’s role in the global AVGC-XR landscape.

Alter Ego and India Takes the Torch as the Next APAC Predator League HostMyth Avenue Gaming Conquer APAC Predator League 2025, Claiming the Predator Shield

Alter Ego and India Takes the Torch as the Next APAC Predator League HostMyth Avenue Gaming Conquer APAC Predator League 2025, Claiming the Predator Shield

India Takes the Torch as the Next APAC Predator League Host

 

Editor’s Summary

  • Alter Ego (VALORANT) and Myth Avenue Gaming (Dota 2) triumphed at the APAC Predator League 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, lifting the Predator Shield after battling the top teams from 14 regions.
  • Both the VALORANT and Dota 2 Grand Finals saw thrilling strategy and gameplay.
  • Acer India office will host the next APAC Predator League, as Acer remains dedicated to empowering gamers and fostering the growth of esports regionally.

Dota-2-Champion-Interview_2025

India, 15 January 2025 – The stage was set, the competition fierce, and the battles legendary. After taking on the top teams from 14 regions, Team Alter Ego (VALORANT) and Myth Avenue Gaming (Dota 2) emerged as the champions of the Asia Pacific Predator League 2025. Both teams claimed the coveted Predator Shield in the sixth edition of the event, and each walked away with a substantial USD 65,000 in prize money.

Also Read: Global Game Jam Kolkata 2025: A New Chapter in Gaming Collaboration

As the curtains closed on this year’s epic showdown in Kuala Lumpur, Acer announced that the next edition of the Predator League will be hosted by the Acer India office, signalling its continued commitment to nurturing the esports and PC gaming ecosystem. Acer India office’s President and Managing Director, Harish Kohli, officially received the Predator League pennant from Acer Malaysia office’s Managing Director, Kon Tek Yoong, in a ceremonial handover.

 

Heightening the atmosphere and giving the crowd a treat, Team ZOL Esports, the first runner-up for VALORANT, mounted a dramatic comeback with six consecutive wins, to level the score at 11:11 from 5:11 after a critical mid-game reset. However, Alter Ego collected themselves and demonstrated unyielding teamwork to shut down the opposing team’s momentum and seal their victory.

 

The home crowd gave Myth Avenue Gaming a rapturous cheer as they overcame Team Helios in an emphatic manner with a 2-0 victory in the Dota 2 Grand Finals to lift the Predator Shield in front of their adoring fans.

VALORANT Intel MVP Cud from Alter Ego with Intel rep

Grand Final Results:

VALORANT (11 January 2025)

Position Team Prize
Champion Alter Ego

(brought by Acer Indonesia office)

 USD 65,000
1st Runner-Up ZOL Esports

(brought by Acer Philippines office)

 USD 20,000
2nd & 3rd Runner-Up Crest Gaming Zst

(brought by Acer Japan office)

 

Xipto Esport

(brought by Acer Malaysia office)

 USD 7,500 each

DOTA 2 Champion MAG with MD Kon Tek Yoong and PAP President Andrew Hou

Dota 2 (12 January 2025)

Position Team Prize
Champion Myth Avenue Gaming

(brought by Acer Malaysia office)

 USD 65,000
1st Runner-Up Team Helios

(brought by Acer Indonesia office)

 USD 20,000
2nd & 3rd Runner-Up Team Ivory

(brought by Acer Philippines office)

 

123 Gaming

(brought by Acer Mongolia office)

 USD 7,500 each

 

In addition to the coveted Predator Shield, ten special awards with a total prize pool of USD20,000 were on the line in the Intel Allstar Vote for both VALORANT and Dota 2. The public voted for their favourite participating players based on their respective roles.

 

The Intel Allstar team for VALORANT that took home USD2,000 each:

Position

 Sentinel Duelist Controller Initiator Flex

Player

 Cud Ray4c gotten ValdyN

invy
Team Alter Ego Alter Ego Alter Ego Alter Ego

Team Secret

 

The Dota 2 Allstar team that took home USD2,000 each:

Position

 Hard Carry Mid Laner Off Laner Support Hard Support

Player

 Cije Azura Rusman Juju

you_K
Team Helios Helios Helios Helios

Helios

 

Two Intel MVPs were also crowned based on their performances in the tournament. They each received USD10,000 as part of this special recognition.

VALORANT

 Dota 2
Cud (Alter Ego)

Bob King (Myth Avenue Gaming)

Acer India office received the Predator League pennant from Acer Malaysia office

The two-day APAC Predator League 2025 Grand Finals was a celebration of esports culture and entertainment, delivering a festival-like experience that went beyond a traditional esports tournament. The event bridged the gap between gamers and non-gamers with a spectrum of activities, from competitive gaming to engaging activities that highlighted energy, teamwork, and community.

Acer introduced new elements in this year’s Predator League, including debuting two exclusive champion avatars, Nero and Yuffy, alongside their animated video, and the Predator “It Lies Within” theme song in local languages. The community was treated to performances by Sandara Park and Minzy of the K-pop group 2NE1, as well as Malaysian stars Aina Abdul and Hael Husaini, and G22 from the Philippines. Another highlight, the Coswalk Competition, showcased Malaysia’s top cosplay talent, with standout costumes and character portrayals of Valkia the Bloody from Warhammer: Age of Sigmar by Vinca Kazuki, Thanatos from Persona 3 by Mak, and S.I.C. Amazon Alpha by Saiful SS Prop earning the top prizes from a RM 25,000 pool.

 

Acer continues to push the boundaries of gaming excellence across the Asia Pacific region through grassroots competitions and hosting premier events like the Predator League. This year’s tournament stood as a testament to the passion, skill, and creativity that fuels the gaming and esports communities.

 

For more information about the APAC Predator League 2025, visit the official website and follow the tournament’s exciting developments on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

About Acer

Founded in 1976, Acer is one of the world’s top technology companies with a presence in more than 160 countries. The company continues to evolve by embracing innovation across its offerings which include computers and displays, while branching out to new businesses. Acer is also committed to sustainable growth, exploring new opportunities that align with its environmental and social responsibilities. The Acer Group employs over 7,800 employees that contribute to the research, design, marketing, sales and support of products, solutions, and services that break barriers between people and technology. Visit www.acer.com for more information.

NCoE for AVGC-XR Promises to Reshape India’s Gaming Sector

NCoE for AVGC-XR Promises to Reshape India’s Gaming Sector

NCoE for AVGC-XR Promises to Reshape India’s Gaming Sector

The National Centre of Excellence (NCoE) for Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR) is poised to transform India’s gaming industry, much like how the IITs and IIMs revolutionized engineering and management. Approved by the Union Cabinet under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the NCoE will be established in Mumbai, Maharashtra, as part of the AVGC Task Force initiative from the 2022-23 budget.

Since esports was officially recognized as a ‘multi-sport event’ by the Indian government, the gaming industry has witnessed rapid growth. States are increasingly engaging with the sector, and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has announced the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES), set to take place in New Delhi in February 2025. This summit will include esports tournaments for games like Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), World Cricket Championship (WCC), and eFootball, further demonstrating India’s commitment to fostering a thriving gaming ecosystem.

Empowering Indian Game Developers and Talent

In his Independence Day speech, Prime Minister Modi encouraged Indian game developers to make a global impact. The NCoE will play a pivotal role in this effort by focusing on the creation of intellectual property (IP) rooted in India’s cultural heritage. Pune-based SuperGaming’s Indus Battle Royale, which recently entered open beta, is a shining example of this, highlighting India’s growing influence in the global gaming scene.

Roby John, CEO and Co-founder of SuperGaming, emphasized, “The NCoE’s role as an incubation hub will be a game-changer for startups, much like how the IITs advanced engineering and the IIMs revolutionized management. We believe this center will reshape India’s gaming industry.”

John also stressed the importance of creating IP based on India’s rich culture, a mission aligned with SuperGaming’s Indus, set in an Indo-futuristic universe. “As gaming blurs the lines between entertainment and technology, we expect significant investments from both domestic and international sources, positioning India as a key content hub.”

Also Read: How is the Gaming Industry Transforming Using Blockchain Technology?

Nurturing Future Talent

Prime Minister Modi has actively supported the gaming industry, even engaging with renowned Indian gamers like Animesh Agarwal (8Bit Thug), Naman Mathur (Mortal), and Payal Dhare (PayalGaming) from 8Bit Creatives, a leading esports talent agency.

Animesh Agarwal, CEO and Co-founder of 8Bit Creatives, said, “The NCoE will provide young enthusiasts with access to the latest technology, mentorship, and guidance. This will drive the creation of Made-in-India games that will leave a lasting mark on the global gaming industry.”

Specialized Learning Programs for AVGC-XR

The NCoE will offer training programs for both beginners and professionals, equipping them with advanced AVGC-XR skills. With the rising demand for high-performance PCs, CyberPowerPC’s recent entry into India is perfectly timed to support the growing needs of the gaming industry.

Vishal Parekh, COO of CyberPowerPC India, stated, “The NCoE is a fantastic initiative that will propel India’s animation, VFX, gaming, and comics sectors forward. As technology advances, the youth will have an incredible opportunity to upskill, further boosting India’s position on the global AVGC-XR map.”

Expanding Career Opportunities for Gen-Z

The NCoE aligns with Gen-Z’s interests, expanding career opportunities in AVGC-XR. NODWIN Gaming, a leader in youth entertainment, gaming, and esports, has been catering to this demographic through IPs like Comic Con, DreamHack India, and BGMS.

Akshat Rathee, Co-founder and Managing Director of NODWIN Gaming, remarked, “The NCoE will serve as a beacon for both amateurs and professionals, offering opportunities to hone their skills in animation, VFX, gaming, and comics. This synergy of sectors will lead to incredible experiences and solidify India as a powerhouse in the global AVGC-XR industry.”

Also Read: Master Graphic Designing with the eBook by Red Apple Learning.

Conclusion

The establishment of the NCoE for AVGC-XR marks a transformative leap for India’s gaming and esports industries, fostering innovation, supporting startups, and nurturing young talent, while positioning India as a global hub for AVGC-XR content.

Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in the Indian Gaming Industry

Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in the Indian Gaming Industry

The Indian gaming industry is experiencing explosive growth, driven by advancements in technology, widespread internet connectivity, and a growing audience of gamers across the country. As the industry expands, it offers lucrative career opportunities for professionals with diverse skill sets. Here, we explore the top 10 highest paying jobs in the Indian gaming industry.

  1. Game Developer

Game developers are the architects of the gaming world. They design, code, and test games, ensuring they are engaging and bug-free. Proficiency in programming languages like C#, C++, and Python is essential. Experienced game developers in India can earn between INR 10-20 lakhs annually, with senior developers earning even more.

  1. Game Designer

Game designers conceptualize the game’s mechanics, storyline, characters, and overall experience. They work closely with developers and artists to bring their vision to life. A strong portfolio and creativity are crucial for this role. Game designers can earn around INR 8-15 lakhs per year, depending on their experience and the complexity of the projects they handle.

  1. Game Artist

Game artists create the visual elements of a game, including characters, environments, and textures. They use software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and 3D modeling tools. Skilled game artists in India can command salaries ranging from INR 6-12 lakhs annually, with senior artists earning higher amounts.

Learn Professional Game Development and get placed in 9 months.

  1. Game Animator

Game animators bring characters and environments to life with movement and expressions. They use animation software such as Maya, Blender, and Unity. The demand for talented animators is high, with salaries typically ranging from INR 6-15 lakhs per year, based on experience and expertise.

  1. Game Producer

Game producers oversee the development process, managing budgets, schedules, and communication between different teams. They ensure that the game is completed on time and within budget. Producers need strong organizational and leadership skills. Experienced game producers can earn between INR 12-25 lakhs annually.

  1. Quality Assurance (QA) Tester

QA testers play a critical role in ensuring that games are free of bugs and provide a seamless experience to players. They rigorously test games, identify issues, and work with developers to fix them. While entry-level QA testers may earn around INR 3-6 lakhs per year, experienced testers can earn up to INR 10 lakhs or more.

  1. Sound Designer

Sound designers create the audio elements of a game, including background music, sound effects, and voiceovers. They use software like Pro Tools and Logic Pro. A keen ear for detail and creativity are essential for this role. Sound designers in India can earn between INR 5-12 lakhs annually, with experienced professionals earning higher salaries.

  1. Game Writer

Game writers craft the storylines, dialogues, and scripts for games. They ensure that the narrative is engaging and aligns with the game’s design. A strong command of language and storytelling skills are vital. Game writers can earn around INR 4-10 lakhs per year, with experienced writers earning more based on the complexity of the projects.

  1. Marketing Manager

Marketing managers in the gaming industry are responsible for promoting games and increasing their visibility. They develop marketing strategies, manage campaigns, and analyze market trends. Strong analytical and communication skills are necessary. Marketing managers can earn between INR 8-20 lakhs annually, depending on their experience and the success of their campaigns.

  1. Esports Manager

Esports managers handle the organization and promotion of esports events and teams. They manage logistics, sponsorships, and player relations. With the rise of esports in India, this role is becoming increasingly lucrative. Esports managers can earn salaries ranging from INR 8-18 lakhs per year, with potential for higher earnings through successful event management and sponsorship deals.

Also Read: 250000 jobs in Indian gaming industry

Conclusion

The Indian gaming industry offers a wealth of high-paying job opportunities for professionals with the right skills and passion for gaming. From creative roles like game designers and artists to technical positions like developers and QA testers, there is a diverse range of careers to explore. As the industry continues to grow, the demand for talented individuals will only increase, making it an exciting field to be a part of. Whether you are just starting your career or looking to make a switch, the Indian gaming industry holds immense potential for growth and success.