How Zupee is Building New Gaming Experiences Rooted in India’s Culture

How Zupee is Building New Gaming Experiences Rooted in India’s Culture

India’s digital landscape has radically transformed in recent years, driven by widespread smartphone adoption and affordable data plans. Amidst this evolution, Zupee has emerged as a pioneering platform that has created a unique category of games by reimagining traditional Indian pastimes for the digital age. By transforming classic games into skill-based, competitive formats, Zupee has built a successful business and preserved and promoted India’s rich cultural legacy.

Bringing Back Beloved Childhood Games

Zupee started by focusing on games that many Indians grew up playing. Titles like Ludo and Snakes & Ladders were always more than mere games; they were part of family time, festivals, and friendly rivalries. Zupee reimagined these classics with sleek digital designs while keeping their original charm. For example, the click of virtual dice in their Ludo games still sparks the same excitement as rolling a wooden die on a physical board. This mix of old and new has made these games popular across generations, from teenagers to grandparents.

Turning Luck into Skill

Traditional board games often depend on luck, but Zupee changed the rules. Take Ludo Supreme: instead of waiting to roll a six to start, players begin moving pieces right away, with time limits to plan their moves. These tweaks reward strategy over chance, making every match a test of quick thinking. Players now analyze risks, predict opponents’ moves, and adapt tactics, turning a casual pastime into a brain-training exercise.

Also Read: Biggest Game Releases of April 2025

Rewards That Matter

What makes Zupee stand out is its focus on real rewards. Players can earn actual prizes by winning matches, with some tournaments offering a chance to win up to ₹10 lakh. But beyond money, playing and winning with Zupee is more about the recognition that follows. Whether it is a homemaker in Rajasthan or a college student in Karnataka, both can showcase their skills and earn rewards, adding purpose to play. Free versions let newcomers practice, while paid contests challenge seasoned players.

Matching India’s Competitive Spirit

Indians love competition in cricket, exams, or even local card games. Zupee tapped into this spirit by creating fair, transparent tournaments. Over 100 million users log in to test their skills against others nationwide. Wins feel earned because outcomes depend on strategy, not random luck. This fairness has built trust, turning casual players into loyal fans.

Designing for the Future

Zupee’s games are super quick. Most of them wrap up in under 10 minutes. This respects players’ time and avoids addiction risks. Features like RNG certification (ensuring random outcomes are truly random) and blockchain checks (for tamper-proof records) keep games honest. The platform also offers choices: free play for fun, low-stakes contests for practice, and high-reward tournaments for experts.

Keeping Culture Alive in the Digital Age

Beyond entertainment, Zupee’s games act as cultural time capsules. When a teenager plays a digital version of Pachisi (an ancient cross-and-circle game), they are connecting with a 4,000-year-old tradition. By making these games trendy and accessible, Zupee ensures they are passed on to new generations. Regional variations and festival-themed tournaments deepen this cultural link, reminding players of India’s diverse heritage.

Also Read: What Should I Learn to Become a Game Developer?

A Blueprint for the Industry

Zupee’s success shows there is a growing demand for games that feel uniquely Indian. Other studios now explore regional stories and traditional art styles, but Zupee leads by blending culture with competition. As India’s gaming market grows, Zupee’s unique model of honoring Indian roots while also embracing innovation acts as a roadmap for other players in the domain. Whether through nostalgic gameplay, skill-based challenges, or meaningful rewards, Zupee proves that cultural heritage can thrive in the digital world.

WAVES 2025: A Global Handheld Gaming Design Challenge Inspires Innovation

WAVES 2025: A Global Handheld Gaming Design Challenge Inspires Innovation

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.

Nazara Makes Bold $2.2M Move to Power Up Esports Community Platform Stan

Nazara Makes Bold $2.2M Move to Power Up Esports Community Platform Stan

Nazara Technologies has strengthened its foothold in the booming esports industry by acquiring a 15.86% stake in STAN, a dynamic platform where gamers rally around their favorite content creators. The $2.2 million deal, sealed through Nazara’s Dubai-based subsidiary, will fuel Stan’s mission to enhance esports fan engagement through an array of supportive tools. With over 12 million users, including half a million paying subscribers, Stan’s mobile-first approach aligns seamlessly with Nazara’s vision of building a global gaming powerhouse.

Also Read: India’s Gaming Market Set to Double, Fueling Job Growth and Economic Transformation

Nazara’s CEO, Nitish Mittersain, sees this acquisition as a strategic win. “Stan’s community-first model fits perfectly with our goal of empowering content creators and connecting global gaming audiences,” he said. Nazara’s latest acquisitions include stakes in events firm Comic Con India and gaming content developer Deltias Gaming, further establishing it as a dominant force in the global gaming landscape. As the company eyes further M&A opportunities, Nazara’s momentum signals a transformative era for esports engagement.

Indian Gaming Industry to Boost Employment Growth

Indian Gaming Industry to Boost Employment Growth

Indian Gaming Industry to Boost Employment Growth

At the Indian Gaming Convention (IGC) in New Delhi on October 15, 2024, Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge emphasized the potential of the gaming industry to create jobs and significantly impact India’s economy. Currently valued at around Rs 16,500 crore, the gaming market could grow to Rs 34,000 crore in the next 4-5 years, generating over 250,000 new jobs.

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

Mr. Kharge stressed the need for a regulatory framework, which he believes would encourage responsible gaming, promote skill development, and provide a conducive environment for growth. With approximately 44 crore gamers and 2,000 startups, the industry is poised for expansion, particularly in Karnataka, which Mr. Kharge referred to as the “innovation and skilling capital” of India. The state has established centers of excellence in animation, visual effects, and graphics, positioning itself to lead in gaming innovation and global intellectual property production.

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.

How is the Gaming Industry Transforming Using Blockchain Technology?

How is the Gaming Industry Transforming Using Blockchain Technology?

How is the Gaming Industry Transforming Using Blockchain Technology?

The gaming industry is undergoing a groundbreaking transformation with the integration of blockchain technology. What was once solely an entertainment-focused sector has now evolved into one that combines finance, ownership, and real-time value. Blockchain is reshaping gaming in previously unimaginable ways, bringing significant benefits to both developers and gamers.

Ownership of In-Game Assets
One of the most revolutionary impacts of blockchain on gaming is the concept of true ownership of in-game assets. Traditionally, in-game items such as skins, weapons, or characters were controlled by game developers. Players could invest time and money to acquire these items, but they never truly “owned” them. With blockchain, through Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), gamers can now have real ownership of their digital assets.

These blockchain-based assets can be bought, sold, or traded across different games and platforms, creating a player-driven economy. This shift has opened up new possibilities in gaming, where digital collectibles hold real-world value. Gamers can now earn through playing, turning gaming into not just a hobby but a potential career path.

Also Read:The High Stakes of AR-VR: Why Meta Is Losing Billions for Future Gains

Play-to-Earn (P2E) Games
Blockchain is also fueling the rise of Play-to-Earn (P2E) games. These games reward players with cryptocurrencies or NFTs for in-game achievements. Games like Axie Infinity and The Sandbox have popularized this model, transforming gamers into entrepreneurs. With P2E, players have a financial incentive to engage more deeply with the game, fostering a new type of relationship between the game and its users.

This model creates a more democratic gaming environment, where players can earn based on their skills and time investment, without the need for upfront costs or pay-to-win mechanics. It’s a win-win situation—gamers earn, and developers enjoy a more active, engaged user base.

Decentralized Gaming Ecosystems
Blockchain has also introduced decentralized gaming ecosystems. Unlike traditional games, where developers retain full control over the game world, blockchain-based games are governed by the community. These decentralized ecosystems allow players to participate in decision-making processes, such as voting on game updates or sharing in profits.

This player-centered governance ensures transparency and fairness, making the gaming experience more rewarding and inclusive. It also shifts power away from large corporations, giving more control to the gaming community, which fosters innovation and creativity.

Enhanced Security and Transparency
Blockchain’s transparency and security features are greatly benefiting the gaming industry. Gamers no longer have to worry about fraudulent transactions or unauthorized access to their accounts. With blockchain, every transaction is recorded on a distributed ledger, making them immutable and traceable.

This technology eliminates the risk of in-game asset fraud, protecting gamers from hacks and malicious activities. Blockchain creates a trustless environment where transactions happen automatically and securely, without the need for intermediaries.

Learn game UI/UX from a leading game dev company and become a professional game designer in 9 months.

Cross-Game Compatibility
Blockchain also offers the possibility of cross-game compatibility, allowing players to use their in-game assets across multiple games. This could lead to a more interconnected gaming ecosystem, where progress in one game can benefit or influence another. For instance, an item earned in a blockchain-based game could be traded or used in a completely different game, enhancing the player’s overall experience.

Conclusion
Blockchain technology is transforming the gaming industry in profound ways, from enabling true ownership of in-game assets to creating decentralized ecosystems. As blockchain games continue to gain popularity, they are unlocking a world of opportunities for both players and developers. The rise of P2E models, enhanced security, and transparency are only the beginning of blockchain’s impact on gaming.

The future of gaming looks bright, with blockchain positioned at the forefront of this revolution.