KRAFTON, the renowned developer behind blockbuster games such as PUBG and BGMI, is setting its sights on expanding its footprint in India with the establishment of a dedicated research and development (R&D) facility by next year. This strategic move aims to enhance the company’s ability to create games tailored to Indian cultural preferences, as revealed by Sean Hyunil Sohn, CEO of KRAFTON India, at the recent IDGS Gaming Conclave.
The specifics of the R&D facility are still in the planning stages, with Bangalore and Pune emerging as potential locations. Sohn emphasized the company’s commitment to not only launching new games for the Indian market but also building a robust development team within the country. “We are exploring the best ways to develop high-quality games rooted in Indian culture,” Sohn stated, reflecting KRAFTON’s dedication to localizing content to better resonate with Indian gamers.
India’s burgeoning gaming market is one of KRAFTON’s top three global markets in terms of user base. Sohn acknowledged the immense demand for digital entertainment in the country and highlighted its rapid growth. However, he also noted challenges such as the scarcity of top-tier talent in the Indian gaming ecosystem. This shortage is partly attributed to India’s relatively nascent history in game development and insufficient investment in IT infrastructure for education.
Addressing these challenges, Sohn advocated for a shift in the perception of the gaming industry in India. He stressed the need for educational support from the government to overcome infrastructure deficits in schools and homes. “Many students interested in coding and game development face barriers such as inadequate hardware and lack of family support. Government initiatives and corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts can help bridge these gaps,” Sohn suggested.
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In addition to its new R&D plans, KRAFTON has already invested significantly in the Indian market. Since 2021, the company has committed $160 million to Indian startups and plans to invest an additional $150 million over the next 2-3 years. This investment strategy includes the launch of the KRAFTON India Gaming Incubator program, which provides critical funding, mentorship, and resources to nurture local game development talent.
Amid concerns over the effects of violence-based online games, Sohn addressed the need for responsible content consumption. KRAFTON has implemented playtime limits to mitigate potential negative impacts, with a three-hour daily limit for minors and a six-hour limit for adults. Sohn emphasized the importance of balancing gaming’s positive aspects with its potential drawbacks.
KRAFTON’s popular game, Battleground Mobile India (BGMI), continues to captivate the Indian gaming community. BGMI, which succeeded PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG), was launched after PUBG faced a ban by the Indian government in September 2020. The successful adaptation of PUBG into BGMI underscores KRAFTON’s ability to tailor its offerings to meet local regulatory requirements while maintaining high standards of gameplay.
As KRAFTON moves forward with its R&D facility plans, the company aims to strengthen its presence in the Indian market and contribute to the growth of the local gaming industry. With a focus on cultural relevance and investment in talent development, KRAFTON is poised to make a significant impact on India’s gaming landscape.
