BGMI maker Krafton selects two startups for its Indian gaming incubator

Krafton has pledged to invest $150 million in Indian gaming and interactive entertainment startups over the next two to three years

Krafton, the maker of the popular battle royale title Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), has selected two startups as part of the inaugural cohort of its India-specific incubator Krafton India Gaming Incubator (KIGI) that aims to boost game development in the country.

Among the selected startups include Nagaland-based ReDimension Games and Bengaluru-based Shura Games, which were chosen from over two hundred applications across India, the company said.

ReDimension Games is developing an action-adventure game called Sojourn Past that is based in Nagaland's capital Kohima and is expected to be released on PC and consoles later this year. The company is led by CEO Pekrukhrietuo Pienyu.

Meanwhile, Shura Games is building a mobile game called Spice Secrets, that aims to blend culinary adventures with puzzle challenges. The startup is led by CEO Shubham Bengale.

Over the next 6 to 12 months, these game developers will receive tailored mentorship from industry experts in game development, design, marketing, and business strategy. They will also get financial assistance ranging from $50,000-$150,000 along with access to Krafton's internal resources including data analytics and market research, among others.

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Krafton India Gaming Incubator was first announced by the South Korean gaming giant in October 2023 and is led by former Gameloft and Glu Mobile executive Anuj Sahani.

The new incubator will solely focus on game development, a change from Krafton's investment strategy in India wherein it has backed startups in the broader digital entertainment and creator economy areas in recent years.

"The launch of KIGI's first cohort marks a significant milestone in our commitment to fostering the gaming ecosystem in India. It consists of some of the most promising game developers from various corners of India" said Sahani, who is currently serving as the head of Krafton India Incubator Program and India Publishing Advisor for the company.

"The selected startups stand out not only for their innovative gaming concepts but also for their determination to redefine the gaming landscape" he added.

Krafton said it continues to evaluate applicants, and may add more startups to this cohort depending on the quality of the applications and products being showcased, as part of the process. It also plans to launch another cohort, which will be much larger in the future.

The move comes as the South Korean gaming firm deepens its presence in India, with an aim to capitalise on the country's rising potential as a global gaming hub.

In August 2023, Krafton pledged to invest $150 million in Indian gaming and interactive entertainment startups over the next two to three years. This brings its total commitment to the Indian market to about $290 million, making it one of the most prolific strategic investors in the country in recent years.

Last month, the company also launched its first India-themed game called Garuda Saga, that will be exclusive to consumers in India and will be available as a free download on Android and iOS devices.