Challenges in Esports: Interview Study of Professional Gamers in India

The growth of esports into a worldwide phenomenon is astounding. With more and more young people trying to make a living as gamers, there has never been a better time to dive into the subject. Despite having the world's largest youth population and the fifth largest economy (both promising grounds for esports), India's esports industry is still underdeveloped. Forty-one Indian professional gamers were interviewed to determine what factors are holding back the growth of esports in the country. Our research illuminates the complex realities of professional gamers in India and the obstacles they confront on their path to the top. Findings from a thematic analysis of the data show that the difficulties of pursuing a career in esports in India are rooted in techno-economic, sociocultural-political, and psychological challenges. Policy implications and suggestions to remedy gamers' precarious situation and advance the country's esports ecosystem are discussed in context. All stakeholders (government, sponsors, team organizations, event organizers, and parents) must collaborate for India to emerge as the global esports superpower.