Esports in India is now looking towards a big change as more PC and console games starting to take place in international competitions. With Rocket League, eFootball, and Street Fighter now joining as official medal games at the Asian Youth Games 2025 in Bahrain, players and organizers in India thinking how to move beyond mobile gaming dominance and build strong teams in new directions.
Mobile Was Big, Now It’s Spreading Wider
Before, India was growing fast in mobile esports with big titles like BGMI and Free Fire. Because of cheaper smartphones and internet, players could enter easily and tournaments became huge. But now, games added to AYG 2025 like Street Fighter 6, eFootball 2024, and Rocket League are mostly played on PC or console, and this showing a big shift happening.
We already saw something similar in Asian Games 2022, where big PC titles like League of Legends and Dota 2 was played for medals. But the Youth Games bring more playable games for younger audience which could help more Indian talent come up if training given in time.
India Getting Ready With Federation Support
The Esports Federation of India (ESFI) has supported this announcement and says it will help India match up with global standards. Lokesh Suji, ESFI Director and also Vice President at AESF, said in statement that the inclusion of these titles “shows India can make name in fast and tactical games too, not just mobile-based.”
Many organizations in India already started preparing. New training bootcamps, coaching support, and hardware setups are being arranged. They are also planning for qualifiers and trials for national selection, probably starting by end of 2024.
Good Chances, But Also Barriers at Asian Youth Games 2025
It’s a good opportunity for Indian players to explore different kind of games and shine on world level. But also, there are problems. Many gamers don’t have access to high-end PCs or consoles. Also, games like Street Fighter 6 need years of practice and understanding of mechanics which are new to many here.
Still, the momentum is growing. Some colleges and sponsors are now showing interest to support esports in PC format too. This will slowly make environment better and open doors to more kinds of talents in future.
Final Thoughts
AYG 2025 bringing in new esports games is a turning moment for India. As more PC and console games enter in medal events, India has the chance to prove its skills in wider areas of gaming. With right guidance, support and training, Indian esports can truly rise in multi-platform world and not just stay limited to mobile.
