Authored by: Gagan Arora

India’s ‘Design in India, Design for World’ initiative aspires to establish the nation as a global hub for design and manufacturing. A pivotal contributor to this vision is the rapidly expanding gaming startup ecosystem, which not only showcases India’s creative talent but also makes significant economic contributions. This article delves into how gaming startups are invigorating this ambitious vision.

The Indian gaming industry has experienced remarkable growth in recent years. As of 2023, the country boasts over 442 million online gamers, positioning it as the second-largest gaming market globally, just behind China. Among these, approximately 90 to 100 million are dedicated and regular players. The online gaming segment has emerged as the fourth-largest sub-sector within India’s Media & Entertainment industry and is projected to reach INR 231 billion by 2025, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20%.

Gagan Arora, Founder, Vertex Global Services
Gagan Arora, Founder, Vertex Global Services

Gaming Startups: Catalysts for Innovation and Design

Indian gaming startups are at the forefront of innovation, developing games that resonate globally while reflecting local narratives. By creating culturally rich content, these startups appeal to domestic audiences and capture international markets. This approach aligns seamlessly with the ‘Design in India, Design for World’ ethos, as games designed locally are gaining global recognition.

Economic Contributions and Employment Generation

The rapid expansion of the gaming sector has significant economic implications. The industry is currently valued at $1.8 billion and is expected to grow to $6-7 billion by 2025, with a staggering CAGR of 35-40%. Moreover, the industry is a substantial employment generator. As of 2023, it employs over 50,000 individuals directly, with projections to generate more than 250,000 jobs by 2025. This job creation spans various roles, including game development, design, marketing, and support services, contributing to the broader economic development of the country.

Also Read: A Giant Eyeball That Sees the Future of Entertainment

Government Initiatives and Policy Support

Technology Incubation and Development of Entrepreneurs (TIDE 2.0) Scheme: Launched in 2019 with an outlay of ₹264.62 crore over five years, TIDE 2.0 extends financial and technical support to institutes of higher learning and premier R&D organizations engaged in supporting ICT startups using emerging technologies. To date, 51 TIDE 2.0 Incubation Centres have been supported and made operational.

Startup Accelerator of MeitY for Product Innovation, Development, and Growth (SAMRIDH) Scheme: This scheme supports existing and upcoming accelerators to select and accelerate potential IT-based startups to scale and solve India’s technological challenges, thereby creating a positive social impact. The SAMRIDH scheme provides support to selected accelerators for extending services to startups, along with one-to-one matching funding support of up to ₹40 lakh. In the first cohort, 22 accelerators across 14 states and 12 cities were selected to support 175 startups.

Next Generation Incubation Scheme (NGIS): Approved to support the software product ecosystem and address a significant portion of the National Policy on Software Product (NPSP) 2019, NGIS aims to handhold 300 tech startups in Tier-2/3 cities over three years, with a total budget outlay of ₹95.03 crore. The scheme is proposed to be launched from 12 locations, including Agartala, Bhilai, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Dehradun, Guwahati, Jaipur, Lucknow & Prayagraj, Mohali/Chandigarh, Patna, and Vijayawada.

Domain-Specific Centres of Excellence (CoEs): The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has operationalized 42 CoEs in diverse areas of national interest to drive self-sufficiency and create capabilities in emerging technology areas. These CoEs act as enablers, aiding in making India an innovation hub through the democratization of innovation and realization of prototypes.

These initiatives are instrumental in creating a conducive environment for gaming startups to thrive and contribute to the ‘Design in India, Design for World’ vision.

Also Read: Minecraft will not become free-to-play, and a sequel is not in Mojang’s plans

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Regulatory Frameworks: The absence of a uniform national policy across states leads to varying interpretations of games of skill versus chance, creating uncertainties for startups. Addressing these regulatory hurdles is crucial to sustain growth and encourage innovation.

Infrastructure Limitations: Disparities in internet connectivity between urban and rural areas pose challenges. Overcoming these barriers will require concerted efforts from both the government and private sectors to ensure inclusive growth.

Access to Funding: While government schemes provide initial support, scaling startups often require substantial funding. Facilitating access to venture capital and private investments is essential for the sustained growth of the gaming ecosystem.

Skilled Workforce: The rapid evolution of gaming technologies necessitates a continuous supply of skilled professionals. Investing in specialized education and training programs will be vital to meet industry demands.

India’s gaming startup ecosystem is a dynamic force propelling the ‘Design in India, Design for World’ vision. Through innovation, economic contributions, and cultural representation, gaming startups are redefining the entertainment landscape and positioning India as a global design hub. With continued support and strategic investments, the gaming industry is poised to play a pivotal role in India’s journey toward becoming a global leader in design and technology.

(The author is the Founder and CEO of Vertex Global Services and Trade Commissioner for the India-Africa Trade Council)

(This article is a guest publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of Scope Magazine. Scope magazine will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article.)

More than 150 developers from across five continents, along with over 650 aspiring creators from India, are participating in an exciting handheld video game design challenge organized by the Indian Digital Gaming Society as part of the WAVES 2025 initiative. Recently launched by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, this initiative aims to empower young innovators and foster a new wave of digital gaming talent.

The challenge has seen widespread participation across India, with students from 20 states and four Union Territories stepping up to compete. An official commented, “The diverse participation, including from regions previously lacking strong economic indicators, demonstrates the far-reaching success of the Digital India initiative.”

Notable areas such as Barmer (Rajasthan), Rayagada and Bhadrak (Odisha), Sonbhadra and Fatehpur (Uttar Pradesh), Vizianagaram and Jammalamadugu (Andhra Pradesh), Shivpuri and Balaghat (Madhya Pradesh), and Nandura (Maharashtra) have all seen registrations. This year’s participants include professionals, freelance developers, and students from colleges and schools. Among them, 33 participants come from India’s vibrant startup ecosystem.

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

Unlike traditional game development challenges, this competition uniquely integrates both hardware and software. Participants must create standalone, non-mobile, LCD handheld gaming devices using microcontrollers such as Arduino Uno and Raspberry Pi. By excluding mobile or computer screens, the challenge ensures a glare-free, non-addictive gaming experience—perfect for educational settings.

Participants must design a fully functional gaming device, blending game mechanics with physical hardware to create an independent and adaptable learning tool. “This challenge bridges multiple disciplines, from programming to electronics and mathematics, to develop an efficient, cost-effective hardware solution,” the official added. Unlike traditional software-based game development, this hands-on approach encourages developers to focus on gameplay logic and hardware integration, avoiding the complexities of Android or Windows operating systems.

The shift to microcontrollers significantly reduces costs and enables modular hardware prototyping, allowing devices to be repurposed with new hardware configurations, ensuring long-term versatility.

The global response to this challenge has been remarkable. European participants hail from Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and the U.K., while African nations such as Algeria, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa have shown strong interest. Registrations have also poured in from the U.S., Canada, Brazil, Singapore, Vietnam, Taiwan, Japan, Indonesia, and several other countries.

Also Read: The Impact of AI and Machine Learning in Game Development: Why You Need a Dedicated Unity Developer?

“This initiative not only promotes the fusion of hardware and software in gaming but also lays the groundwork for future innovations in IoT (Internet of Things) and embedded systems. It could serve as a stepping stone for the development of smart learning tools, automation technologies, and homegrown gaming hardware in India,” said the official.

The focus on low-power, simple display technologies aligns with global sustainable tech trends, opening the door to next-generation smart toys, wearables, and automation projects. It also supports India’s ‘Semiconductor Mission,’ which seeks to drive semiconductor innovation and self-reliance.

In essence, this challenge not only aims to revolutionize gaming but also ignite technological progress in India, fostering a thriving ecosystem of innovation in the years to come.

In an age where technology shapes careers and opportunities, digital education is crucial for students to make informed decisions about their future. Acknowledging this need, Scope Magazine has introduced a five-day crash course to provide students with a glimpse into the exciting world of digital skills. Designed to be accessible and impactful, this initiative is already making waves in schools and colleges across Bengal.

The Five-Day Crash Course: A Gateway to Digital Careers

This crash course introduces students to foundational concepts in digital designing, programming, and other in-demand skills. Unlike long-term programs, this concise training is tailored to provide maximum value in a short time. By the end of the course, students receive a certification, adding a significant credential to their profiles.

Scope Gaming Community is undertaking unprecedented initiatives to help students accommodate in the fast growing global digital landscape.
Scope Gaming Community is undertaking unprecedented initiatives to help students accommodate in the fast growing global digital landscape.

Also Read: Scope and Red Apple Learning to Launch Digital Literacy Initiative

What Does the Crash Course Cover?

  1. Introduction to Digital Design:
    Students learn the basics of graphic design and user interface creation, exploring tools like Canva.
  2. Programming Basics:
    The course offers an overview of programming concepts and languages such as C, C# or Unity3D, sparking interest in coding.
  3. Digital Career Exploration:
    Insights into career paths like game development, web design, and app development empower students to understand their options better.
  4. Hands-On Mini Projects:
    Each student gets the opportunity to work on a simple project, showcasing their newly learned skills.
Free masterclasses for schools, colleges and university students
Skill Development redefined! Scope Gaming Community is empowering students with industry-relevant skills to excel in the booming digital careers landscape. 

Why This Course Matters

  1. Informed Career Decisions:
    For students in the early stages of career planning, this course acts as a career compass, offering clarity about the digital domain.
  2. Accessible Learning:
    By keeping the training free, Scope Magazine ensures that students from diverse backgrounds can participate, eliminating financial barriers.
  3. Confidence Boost:
    Completing the course and earning a certification instills a sense of achievement and motivates students to explore further learning opportunities.
Free masterclasses for schools, colleges and university students
Unlock new horizons with Career Exploration! Scope is helping students navigate the dynamic world of Digital Careers through impactful initiatives and guidance.

Partnering with educational institutions

In last 2 years, Scope magazine has been successfully conducting such classes, seminars and webinars in association with Red Apple Learning in schools, colleges and universities. Thousands of students have already reaped the benefits of these events by now. Later on, many of these students have pursued specializations in these new age skills and now working successfully in leading corporate houses.

Also Read: Avoid 6 Common Mistakes before Selecting your Career Options

The Ripple Effect: Impact on Students

Students who have participated in the crash course have reported a newfound enthusiasm for exploring digital careers. Here’s what this initiative achieves:

  • Broadening Horizons: Students discover skills they were previously unaware of, opening doors to fields like graphic design, programming, and game development.
  • Practical Knowledge: Even in just five days, hands-on exposure to digital tools and techniques enhances their confidence.
  • Future Readiness: The certification, combined with a better understanding of digital career opportunities, positions students as forward-thinking individuals.
Scope magazine conducting seminars and webinars in schools, colleges and universities
Scope in association with Red Apple Learning Pvt. Ltd. is conducting free masterclasses for schools, colleges and university students.

The Future of Digital Education in Bengal

Scope Magazine’s mission doesn’t end here. Plans are underway to expand these crash courses to more institutions, creating an ecosystem where every student can explore the digital world, regardless of their background.

By introducing young minds to diverse skill sets, Scope Magazine is not just teaching—it’s inspiring a generation to dream big and make informed decisions about their futures.

For more details about Scope Magazine’s initiatives, visit www.scopemagazine.in.

 

A decade ago, China lifted its 14-year ban on video game console sales, opening the floodgates for a gaming revolution in the world’s third-largest market. The move not only allowed global giants like Sony, Nintendo, and Microsoft to officially enter the Chinese market but also inspired local studios to dream bigger. No longer confined to online and mobile gaming, many Chinese developers began exploring larger-scale console titles. Among them was Game Science, the studio behind the 2024 Golden Joystick Ultimate Game of the Year winner, Black Myth: Wukong.

A Stunning Achievement on a Modest Budget

It’s hard to overstate the leap Game Science made with Black Myth: Wukong. Having previously developed only a couple of relatively simple mobile strategy games, the studio managed to deliver a game of extraordinary polish and high production value on a budget of under $100 million. While that figure might seem impressive in China, it’s relatively modest compared to Western AAA standards. Yet, Wukong is a dazzling showcase of Unreal Engine 5, bringing cutting-edge graphics to life with remarkable finesse.

From its reimagined Journey to the West characters and cinematic cutscenes to its intricate combat systems and unforgettable boss fights, Wukong shattered expectations. The skepticism that greeted its reveal trailer four years ago—where many doubted the final product could match its stunning visuals—was thoroughly put to rest. While the game isn’t perfect, its achievement is undeniable.

Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo’s Backing and the Launch of UFL: The New Challenger in Football Gaming

Highlights and Criticisms

Despite its success, Black Myth: Wukong isn’t without flaws. Its linear progression, initial technical hiccups, and occasionally underwhelming combat feedback have drawn criticism. However, these issues didn’t prevent the game from becoming a global hit, earning nominations for prestigious awards and cementing its place as a milestone in gaming history.

Black Myth: Wukong System Requirements

If you’re planning to embark on this mythological journey, make sure your gaming rig is up to the task. Here are the system requirements for Black Myth: Wukong:

Minimum Requirements

  • Processor: Core i5-8400 / Ryzen 5 1600
  • GPU: GeForce GTX 1060 / RX 580
  • VRAM: 6GB
  • RAM: 16GB
  • Storage: 130GB (HDD supported)

Recommended Requirements

  • Processor: Core i7-9700 / Ryzen 5 5500
  • GPU: GeForce RTX 2060 / Radeon RX 6700XT / Arc A750
  • VRAM: 6GB
  • RAM: 16GB
  • Storage: 130GB (SSD recommended)

For Full Ray Tracing on Ultra Settings

  • Processor: Core i7-9700 / Ryzen 5 5500
  • GPU: GeForce RTX 4080 Super
  • VRAM: 16GB
  • RAM: 32GB
  • Storage: 130GB (SSD required)

Opening the Floodgates for Chinese AAA Games

The success of Wukong has not only propelled Game Science into the spotlight but has also piqued global interest in other Chinese developers. In 2025, several high-profile releases are planned, each aiming to rival the scale and ambition of Black Myth. Notable examples include:

  • Phantom Blade Zero
  • Wuchang: Fallen Feathers
  • Code: To Jin Yong

These games, while developed by studios of varying sizes (e.g., Lightspeed Games, a Tencent division, is behind Code: To Jin Yong), share a common thread: jaw-dropping visuals, dynamic combat, and deep roots in Chinese cultural traditions like Wuxia. This infusion of cultural inspiration into gameplay and aesthetics has added a refreshing vibrancy to their offerings.

A New Trend or a Short-Lived Fad?

Interestingly, many of these upcoming titles seem to follow a similar formula: fast-paced, third-person character action games with Souls-like combat elements. While this trend is exciting now, it remains to be seen if repeated iterations will lead to fatigue. For the moment, however, the buzz surrounding these games suggests a bright future for the genre.

Looking Ahead

Black Myth: Wukong is more than just a game—it’s a declaration of intent. Game Science has proven that Chinese developers can compete with the best, and the ripple effect is already visible. If the upcoming titles live up to their trailers, this could mark the dawn of a new era for Chinese AAA games.

For now, gamers have plenty to look forward to, and if these developers continue to innovate and refine their craft, the global gaming industry will have an exciting new force to reckon with.

5 Ways to Promote Your Games Using Scope Magazine

Get noticed in a crowded market! Check out these 5 innovative promotional ideas for game publishers to shine through Scope Magazine.

If you’re a game publisher seeking to promote a game to student audiences without spending heavily on ads, Scope Magazine is the perfect platform to get started. With a reputation for reaching youth audiences interested in gaming and tech, Scope offers an affordable way for you to share your latest games. Here are five creative, low-cost ways that game publishers can leverage Scope Magazine to reach an engaged audience of students and young gamers. Here are five game promotion strategies for publishers and indie developers.

1. Host Developer Q&A Sessions

Live Q&A sessions allow you to create a direct connection between your game’s developers and their audience. By setting up a Q&A through Scope Magazine, students get the opportunity to meet the creators, understand the vision behind the game, and ask questions about the development process, challenges, and future updates. This personal interaction brings the game to life for potential players and gives them a sense of insider access.

Students are often curious about the behind-the-scenes of game development and enjoy learning from experienced developers. Even if they don’t ask questions, seeing others engage creates an atmosphere of community around your game. This engagement has the added bonus of helping you understand what your audience is interested in, whether it’s character development, gameplay mechanics, or even the tech stack used. For publishers, it’s a highly affordable option that relies more on time and creativity than on large budgets.

Also Read: The Best Game Development Frameworks in 2024: A Guide for Students

Scope Gaming Community
Scope Gaming Community

 

2. Offer Beta Testing Access

Giving students early access to your game can be a game-changer, as beta testing is a fantastic way to generate excitement. Through Scope, publishers can announce beta-testing opportunities to an audience that is young, passionate, and curious about upcoming games. Students love getting an early glimpse at a game they’re excited about and being among the first to experience the gameplay, art, and narrative.

Scope Community Members testing games for indie developers
Game Tesing with Scope Community

By offering access through Scope Magazine, you’re reaching a specific group of students interested in tech and gaming. This audience is also likely to provide feedback that could help developers refine the gameplay experience before the official launch. Plus, allowing students to be part of the beta testing team makes them feel connected to the development process, building brand loyalty that could last beyond a single game release.

3. Conduct Interactive Polls

Polls might seem simple, but they’re a highly effective, budget-friendly way to engage students and learn about your audience’s preferences. Through Scope, publishers can run polls that cover a variety of topics, from gameplay preferences to desired features or genres. For instance, you might ask, “What’s your favorite type of game environment?” or “Which aspect of the game are you most excited about—story, visuals, or gameplay?”

These types of interactive polls provide valuable insights, helping you shape your marketing or even influence game development to align with what students are looking for. Plus, polls are inherently shareable, so readers are likely to share them with friends, increasing reach at no extra cost. This allows publishers to learn more about their audience, create tailored content, and build anticipation around the game’s release.

4. Be Featured as Scope’s Game of the Month

Scope Magazine can help you gain dedicated attention by featuring your game as the “Game of the Month.” This program could highlight your game through a spotlight article, social media posts, and even email newsletters sent directly to a student-focused audience. Being the featured game offers significant visibility, helping your game stand out without competing with others for attention.

most anticipated game releases for July 2024

Aum the Game featured on Scope Gaming Magazine

To maximize this feature, consider offering a small discount or special in-game bonus exclusively for Scope readers. This limited-time offer appeals to students and young gamers who are often on a budget. Not only does this boost game engagement, but it also encourages readers to download and play right away, while the attention is still fresh. Since this option involves minimal costs, it’s ideal for publishers looking to increase their game’s reach within a targeted, student-heavy demographic.

India Game Developer Conference (IGDC), 2024
India Game Developer Conference (IGDC), 2024

Also Read:Will AI Replace Game Developers?

5. Host Student-Centric Competitions

Friendly competitions are a great way to generate excitement and engagement around your game. One of the most significant game promotion strategies for publishers is certainly competitions. Through Scope, you could host contests related to gameplay achievements, fan art, or creative storytelling. These competitions could involve small rewards, like in-game currency or merchandise, or even simply the chance to be featured on Scope’s social channels or in an article.

Competitions encourage students to interact with the game, creating a sense of community around it. They also tap into the social aspect of gaming—players share achievements and compete with peers, increasing awareness of your game through organic word-of-mouth. Not only do competitions offer promotional value at a low cost, but they also enhance user loyalty by creating an interactive experience that makes players feel part of something bigger.

Wrapping Up

In a world where gaming promotions can be expensive, Scope Magazine offers an affordable alternative for publishers wanting to connect with students and young players. With these strategies—Q&A sessions, beta testing, polls, monthly features, and competitions—you can promote your game effectively while staying within budget. By leveraging Scope’s student-focused platform, you can generate buzz, build a dedicated fan base, and gather valuable feedback from the next generation of gamers. These low-cost tactics help make your game visible to an enthusiastic audience, creating a win-win situation for both publishers and students interested in gaming. With the above mentioned game promotion strategies for publishers Scope Gaming Community is building the bridge between creators, affiliate marketers and consumers. We hope to build a robust gaming community to connect the entire nation with the world.

The Best Game Development Frameworks in 2024: Students’ Guide

Game development is a growing field, with more opportunities than ever for students to dive into the world of creating engaging, immersive experiences. Whether you’re looking to create mobile games, console games, or indie projects, having the right game development framework is crucial. In 2024, developers have a wealth of options at their fingertips, each suited to different types of projects and skill levels. This guide will introduce you to the best frameworks available, helping you make informed decisions as you start your journey in game development.

1. Unity: The All-Rounder

For students who are serious about game development, Unity remains a top choice in 2024. This widely-used engine is known for its versatility, allowing developers to create 2D, 3D, and VR/AR games. Whether you’re making a simple mobile game or a AAA-level project, Unity has the tools you need. Unity supports cross-platform development, meaning your game can run on almost any platform, including iOS, Android, PC, and even consoles.

Why Unity is great for students:

  • Extensive online tutorials and documentation.
  • Strong community support.
  • A wide range of asset libraries.
  • Visual scripting tools (like Bolt) for those without coding experience.

Unity also offers a free tier for beginners, making it a great entry point for students working on their first projects.

2. Unreal Engine: For High-Quality 3D Games

Unreal Engine, developed by Epic Games, is another powerhouse in the game development world. Known for its stunning graphics and high-level performance, Unreal is the go-to choice for developers looking to create highly realistic 3D games. It features a robust visual scripting system called Blueprints, which allows beginners to create complex game mechanics without deep programming knowledge.

Why Unreal Engine is great for students:

  • Industry-standard for high-fidelity 3D games.
  • Large collection of assets in the Unreal Marketplace.
  • Access to cutting-edge technology like ray tracing and Lumen (for realistic lighting and environments).
  • Free to use unless your game generates over $1 million in revenue.

Unreal Engine is perfect for students who want to work on visually impressive projects or aim for a career in large game studios.

Also Read: Indian Gaming Industry to Boost Employment Growth

3. Godot: The Open-Source Rising Star

Godot is an open-source game development framework that has been gaining significant traction in recent years. It’s lightweight, highly flexible, and best of all, completely free. In 2024, Godot stands out for its simplicity and effectiveness, especially for indie developers and students. It supports both 2D and 3D game development, with a dedicated 2D engine that’s ideal for pixel-perfect projects.

Why Godot is great for students:

  • Open-source and free to use.
  • Lightweight and easy to learn.
  • Great for both 2D and 3D games.
  • A supportive and growing community of indie developers.

Godot’s focus on simplicity, combined with its powerful features, makes it an excellent choice for students looking to create unique, creative games without steep learning curves.

4. Cocos2d-x: For Mobile and Lightweight Games

Cocos2d-x is a popular framework for mobile game development, especially 2D games. This open-source framework is known for its efficiency and lightweight nature, making it perfect for students focused on creating mobile-friendly games. Although Cocos2d-x is written in C++, it also supports Lua and JavaScript, providing flexibility in terms of programming languages.

Why Cocos2d-x is great for students:

  • Optimized for mobile platforms.
  • Low memory usage and high performance.
  • Cross-platform support for Android, iOS, and web games.
  • Open-source and free to use.

Cocos2d-x is ideal for students looking to break into mobile game development and wanting a framework that’s efficient and easy to manage.

Also Read:Will AI Replace Game Developers?

5. Phaser: For 2D Browser-Based Games

Phaser is a 2D game framework that is perfect for developing browser-based games. It uses JavaScript, making it accessible for students with basic web development skills. Phaser is highly efficient for simple games, especially when targeting HTML5 platforms.

Why Phaser is great for students:

  • Easy integration with web technologies.
  • Fast development cycle for 2D games.
  • Great for creating browser-based games without needing to install apps.

For students interested in making quick prototypes or interactive web-based games, Phaser offers an easy-to-learn solution.

Conclusion

Choosing the right game development framework depends on the type of game you want to create and your skill level. For students, Unity and Unreal Engine provide powerful all-in-one solutions, while Godot and Cocos2d-x offer free, lightweight alternatives. Phaser is perfect for web-based projects. Explore these frameworks to find which one suits your needs and start building your next great game today!

The Biggest Game Releases of October 2024

October is shaping up to be a thrilling month for gamers, packed with major AAA releases and some spine-chilling surprises. Leading the lineup is Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, followed closely by remastered horror classics like Silent Hill 2 and Until Dawn. These fan favorites are making a comeback with revamped visuals and gameplay, appealing to both newcomers and long-time fans.

Beyond the headline titles, there are several other exciting releases. Atlus is launching the much-anticipated Metaphor: ReFantazio, and Batman fans can immerse themselves in the Arkham universe with Batman Arkham Shadow in VR. Additionally, BioWare’s latest release, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, is generating a lot of buzz, along with a mysterious new game set in The Callisto Protocol universe called Redacted.

Alongside these high-profile titles, a variety of indie games are debuting this month, ensuring there’s something for every type of gamer. Here’s a breakdown of October’s biggest releases:

Super Mario Party Jamboree

  • Release Date: October 17
  • Platforms: Switch

Super Mario Party Jamboree

Packed with over 110 mini-games and seven colorful boards, Super Mario Party Jamboree offers endless fun. Whether playing locally or online, it’s a party for all ages, with new characters like Pauline and Ninji joining the action.

Also Read: The Biggest Game Releases of August 2024

Kill Knight

  • Release Date: October 3
  • Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch

Kill Knight

An intense action-packed adventure awaits as players take control of a knight on a holy quest. The game’s challenging combat and endless enemies make Kill Knight a white-knuckle ride from start to finish.

 

Until Dawn

  • Release Date: October 4
  • Platforms: PC, PS5

Until Dawn

The horror favorite Until Dawn returns with a remake that enhances its visuals and adds new design elements. Players can still expect the same nail-biting, choice-driven gameplay that made the original such a hit.

 

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6

  • Release Date: October 25
  • Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One

Call of Duty Black Ops 6

Black Ops 6 takes players back to 1991 in an intense, conspiracy-filled campaign. Multiplayer and Zombie modes return with enhanced features, promising fast-paced action for all players.

 

Silent Hill 2 Remake

  • Release Date: October 8
  • Platforms: PC, PS5

Silent Hill 2 Remake

The Silent Hill 2 remake breathes new life into the psychological horror classic. With updated combat mechanics and immersive visuals, it retains the essence of the original while adding modern touches to enhance the experience.

 

Diablo 4: Vessel of Hatred

  • Release Date: October 8
  • Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One

Diablo 4 Vessel of Hatred

Diablo’s first expansion introduces an updated difficulty system, Runewords, and a unique dungeon to explore. Fans of the series can also look forward to the return of the secret cow level—an iconic feature rumored to be making a comeback.

 

Metaphor: ReFantazio

  • Release Date: October 11
  • Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S

Metaphor: ReFantazio

From the creators of Persona comes Metaphor: ReFantazio, a JRPG that combines dungeon-crawling and character-building in a brand-new fantasy world. A demo is available for those eager to dive into its exciting world.

 

Batman Arkham Shadow

  • Release Date: October 22
  • Platforms: Meta Quest 3

Batman Arkham Shadow

Batman Arkham Shadow immerses players in Gotham like never before, offering thrilling VR gameplay. Step into the boots of a young Batman as he faces off against the sinister Rat King in this action-packed adventure.

 

Sonic x Shadow Generations

  • Release Date: October 22
  • Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch

Sonic x Shadow Generations

This 2-in-1 game includes a new title starring Shadow the Hedgehog and a remastered version of Sonic Generations, delivering fast-paced, nostalgic gameplay.

Also Read:Will AI Replace Game Developers?

Life is Strange: Double Exposure

  • Release Date: October 29
  • Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S

Life is Strange: Double Exposure

Max Caulfield returns in this exciting sequel, where players explore parallel timelines and make tough choices that shape the story. With a gripping narrative and emotional depth, Life is Strange: Double Exposure promises a memorable experience.

 

Dragon Age: The Veilguard

  • Release Date: October 31
  • Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S

Dragon Age: The Veilguard

Set a decade after Inquisition, Dragon Age: The Veilguard invites players to explore Thedas once more. The game introduces new customization options, companions, and an action-packed combat system that stays true to the series’ roots.

 

Redacted

  • Release Date: October 31
  • Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S

Redacted

Redacted revives the Callisto Protocol universe with a roguelike dungeon-crawler. Play as a security guard racing for the last escape pod in Black Iron Prison, battling escaped prisoners and nightmarish creatures. Your reanimated corpse returns to challenge you after each death, raising the stakes in each rematch.

The Biggest Game Releases of August 2024

As the year approaches its end, the gaming world is seeing a surge in major releases. The most anticipated title this month is undoubtedly Star Wars Outlaws, Ubisoft’s take on the iconic franchise. After years of EA’s dominance, Ubisoft brings its well-known open-world formula to the Star Wars universe, adding remarkable details and an engaging storyline that diverges from the usual Jedi themes.

For fans of Souls-like games, Black Myth: Wukong is another highlight this month. Based on the ancient Chinese tale, Journey to the West, this game offers thrilling combat as players control Sun Wukong and face terrifying creatures from folklore.

Other notable titles this August include the quirky British-themed Thank Goodness You’re Here, the magical strategy game Tactical Breach Wizards, and even the meme-worthy Squirrel with a Gun. Below are more details on these exciting releases.

Thank Goodness You’re Here!

  • Release Date: August 1
  • Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Switch

Thank Goodness You're Here!

This game takes you to a charming British village filled with quirky characters. You’ll explore the town of Barnsworth and assist the locals in this humorous slapformer with a whimsical art style.

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Volgarr the Viking 2

  • Release Date: August 6
  • Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S

Volgarr the Viking

A sequel to the 2013 classic, this challenging action-adventure pits you against hordes of enemies with intricate combat mechanics. While it’s tough, checkpoints and unlimited continues ensure an enjoyable experience for all players.


SteamWorld Heist II

  • Release Date: August 8
  • Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch

SteamWorld Heist II

This tactical combat game features a ragtag team of seafaring robots battling through turn-based strategy encounters. The job system and ricochet mechanics add depth to the gameplay as you navigate a water crisis in Steamworld.


Kena: Bridge of Spirits

  • Release Date: August 15
  • Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One

Kena: Bridge of Spirits

Bridge of Spirits offers a heartfelt story combined with stunning visuals. Players will engage in combat with adorable companions while exploring the world, now available on Xbox platforms.

Madden NFL 25

  • Release Date: August 16
  • Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S

Madden NFL 25

Football fans can look forward to this year’s Madden, featuring a new physics-based tackling system called Boom Tech. This mechanic brings a fresh layer of strategy, adding complexity to each play.

Black Myth: Wukong

  • Release Date: August 20
  • Platforms: PC, PS5

Black Myth: Wukong

Based on the classic Journey to the West, Black Myth: Wukong brings mythological Chinese elements into the Souls-like genre. The game’s action-packed combat, coupled with its intricate narrative, promises an immersive experience.


Tactical Breach Wizards

  • Release Date: August 22
  • Platforms: PC

Tactical Breach Wizards

For fans of tactical combat games, Tactical Breach Wizards blends strategy with spellcasting. Assemble your team of magical operatives, and navigate black-ops missions using powerful abilities to manipulate time and space.


Concord

  • Release Date: August 23
  • Platforms: PS5, PC

Concord is stepping into the competitive shooter market alongside heavyweights like Overwatch and Valorant. With its dynamic character roster and post-launch updates, it aims to stand out in an already crowded genre.


World of Warcraft: The War Within

  • Release Date: August 26
  • Platforms: PC

World of Warcraft: The War Within

The first chapter in the Worldsoul Saga, The War Within introduces new dungeons, raids, and a “Delve” mode for smaller parties. It’s a big release for World of Warcraft as it marks the game’s 20th anniversary.


Gundam Breaker 4

  • Release Date: August 29
  • Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Switch

Gundam Breaker 4

Gunpla enthusiasts can build and customize their own Gundams in this action-packed game. With dozens of models to unlock and combine, players can bring their dream creations to life on the battlefield.

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Squirrel With A Gun

  • Release Date: August 29
  • Platforms: PC

Squirrel With A Gun

In this unique and meme-worthy title, you play as a gun-wielding squirrel causing chaos. It’s an open-world game full of crime and hilarity, offering a fun and unpredictable experience.


Visions of Mana

  • Release Date: August 29
  • Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, PC

Visions of Mana

The beloved Mana series returns after 15 years with a brand-new entry. Visions of Mana blends vibrant JRPG mechanics with a semi-open world as you journey to the Tree of Mana.


Star Wars Outlaws

  • Release Date: August 30
  • Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S

Star Wars Outlaws

Ubisoft’s take on Star Wars lets players control Kay Vess, a scoundrel trying to pull off the ultimate heist in the Star Wars galaxy. With a focus on open-world exploration and a fresh narrative, Star Wars Outlaws aims to deliver a thrilling adventure.

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.”

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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.”

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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.

Unity 6 Set for Global Release on October 17, 2024, Unity Announces at Annual “Unite” Developer Conference

Unity Technologies has announced that Unity 6 will officially launch worldwide on October 17, 2024. This exciting news was revealed during the company’s Unite developer conference, where a preview of upcoming features and advancements in game development was also shared.

Unity 6 promises a host of new features, including customizable graphics rendering, enhanced tools for multiplayer game development, and optimized support for web-based games through a new WebGPU backend. A significant highlight is the integration of advanced AI tools such as Sentis, which will allow developers to incorporate AI models across various devices. The engine will also expand the Muse suite of AI-driven tools and services, making AI a key component of game development workflows.

The first major update, Unity 6.1, is slated for April 2025. This version will build upon Unity 6’s core capabilities, introducing support for foldable and larger screens, deferred rendering with GPU Resident Drawer, and new build targets and profiles to enhance the development experience.

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While Unity 6 marks a significant leap forward, Unity has confirmed that work has already begun on the next generation of the engine. Although still in the early stages of development, this future iteration aims to deliver a “fundamental shift in design,” incorporating features like the Entity Component System (ECS) at its core, a new content pipeline, a world-building system based on DOTS, and an upgraded animation system.

Unity CEO Matt Bromberg emphasized the company’s focus on meeting developer needs, particularly regarding stability and performance. “Unity 6 is the best version of Unity yet, with long-term support and regular updates, all while minimizing disruption to developers’ current projects,” Bromberg stated.

Unity 5, which launched in March 2015, marked the beginning of a yearly update cycle. However, the company has since reverted to its major update model to deliver more substantial, feature-packed releases.

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Recently, Unity also reversed its controversial runtime fee policy after engaging in “deep consultation” with the community, customers, and partners. The fee, initially announced last September, faced significant backlash, leading to its removal for games using Unity Personal licenses.