Competitive gaming as a viable source of income has gained popularity in India recently, particularly in Bengaluru, where gamers from around the world gather to compete, network, and improve their skills. One notable player is Shreyas, a 16-year-old who currently holds the top ranking in Super Smash Bros in India. He started his gaming journey during the COVID lockdown by participating in online tournaments, a trend echoed by many others. The gaming community in Bengaluru also attracts players from various countries, with one player from the UAE and several from Mumbai participating in tournaments. Arjun Sivaram, the fifth-ranked player in India, shares that he has earned substantial money through gaming, with tournament rewards ranging from ₹20,000 to ₹50,000. Additionally, the Super Smash Bros community in Bengaluru boasts a significant number of female gamers, setting it apart from other gaming communities.In the grand scheme of the gaming world, our community is proud to attract numerous female gamers. We are known for our inclusivity and the essence of professional gaming found in Super Smash Bros. This game is renowned for its challenging gameplay yet it refrains from graphic violence, making it appealing to a wide range of players. With its diverse selection of characters like Kirby and Jigglypuff, Super Smash Bros draws fans from various entertainment genres,” says Rahul. Ipsita Thapa, a NIFT student and part-time cosplayer, attended the event dressed as Link from The Legend of Zelda. Ipsita mentions, “Creating this costume from scratch took me over a week and cost around ₹5,000 for materials. I happily invest more than ₹50,00 yearly in cosplay because I enjoy embodying characters and spreading joy at conventions.” The professional gaming scene has significantly improved over time, with local players now successfully competing against international opponents, showcasing dedicated practice and commitment, notes Arjun Sivaram. Nitin Rao, a graphic designer and an SSB community member, emphasizes that the social atmosphere in Bengaluru has fostered a thriving gaming community. In contrast to other cities where gamers tend to play in isolation, Bengaluru's sociable environment has enabled this group to evolve from online players into a close-knit family of friends who extend their camaraderie beyond the realm of gaming.