In the dynamic realm of mobile gaming, India has emerged as a burgeoning hub for innovative and culturally resonant games. With the surge in smartphone usage, particularly during the lockdown, the Indian gaming market witnessed an unprecedented rise. The ban on popular games like PUBG created a void eagerly filled by indigenous developers. Here’s a comprehensive look at the 5 mobile games made in India that have not only captured the attention of gamers but have also become cultural phenomena.
1. FAU-G (Fearless and United Guards): A Patriotic Battle Royale
Following the ban of PUBG in India, nCore Games swiftly introduced FAU-G, positioned as the indigenous competitor to the popular battle royale. While not a direct replica, FAU-G resonates with Indian audiences due to its homegrown setting and storyline. The game’s narrative unfolds in a story mode, guiding players through the Galwan Valley incident, allowing them to engage in intense battles against the Chinese Army and rescue captured Indian soldiers. Despite some developmental nuances, FAU-G has garnered a significant fan base, securing its position as a promising contender in the Indian gaming landscape.
2. Ludo King: Bringing the Classic Board Game to the Digital Era
A classic board game beloved in Indian households, Ludo found a digital reincarnation with Ludo King. Developed by Gametion Technologies Pvt Ltd, the game soared to popularity during the lockdown, offering a virtual haven for friends and families. Beyond its strategic gameplay, Ludo King introduced a chat feature, fostering social connections during times of isolation. With over 100 million downloads and a stellar 4.2-star rating on the Google Play Store, Ludo King stands as a quintessential Indian gaming success story.
3. Indian Air Force: A Cut Above – A Patriotic Flight Simulation
Launched in the aftermath of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman’s capture, Indian Air Force: A Cut Above enables users to step into the shoes of an IAF Air Warrior. Commemorating the Balakot strike, the game offers both single-player and multiplayer modes, allowing players to operate high-performance aircraft, engage in team-based battles, and survive in a Free for All mode. With a 4.7-star rating on the Google Play Store, the game resonates with patriotic sentiments, providing players with an immersive experience of being a part of the Indian Air Force.
4. Real Cricket 2.0: A Love Letter to India’s Cricket Enthusiasts
Catering to the nation’s profound love for cricket, Real Cricket 2.0 provides a virtual pitch for enthusiasts to relish the sport on their smartphones. Developed by Nautilus Mobile, this cricket game has earned numerous accolades, including People’s Choice Game of the Year-2014 and India Gaming Week Sports and Debut Game of the Year – 2015. Boasting a 4.1-star rating and over 10 million downloads, Real Cricket 2.0 stands as a testament to India’s cricketing passion.
5. The Bonfire: Forsaken Lands – Crafting Strategy and Survival
Developed by Himanshu Manwani and Govardhan Gosavi for Xigma Games, The Bonfire: Forsaken Lands is a captivating strategy game that has found a loyal audience in India. With a 6-day free trial and subsequent payment, players build their own homes, manage surroundings, and prepare for nightly monster attacks. Boasting a 4.1-star rating on the Google Play Store and over a million downloads, the game’s popularity is attributed to its smooth gameplay and user-friendly interface.
As India’s mobile gaming sector continues to evolve, these games showcase the creativity and ingenuity of local developers. Whether invoking patriotic fervor, connecting friends virtually, or providing immersive gameplay experiences, these top mobile games made in India contribute significantly to the country’s gaming renaissance. As the gaming industry continues to flourish, these homegrown gems pave the way for a future where Indian developers are at the forefront of the global gaming landscape.
