Competitive gaming as a viable source of income has recently gained popularity in India, with Bengaluru emerging as a hub for gamers from around the world. The Super Smash Bros (SSB) community in Bengaluru has seen significant growth, with players like Shreyas, a 16-year-old who is currently ranked as India’s top SSB player, sharing their experiences. Amid the COVID-19 lockdown, many individuals, including Shreyas, turned to gaming to pass the time, leading them to discover online tournaments and competitive opportunities. This trend has attracted players from various countries to Bengaluru, such as the UAE and Mumbai.

Arjun Sivaram, India’s fifth-ranked SSB player who traveled from Mumbai for a tournament in Bengaluru, mentions that he has earned over ₹1.5 lakh from gaming, emphasizing the lucrative rewards available in competitive gaming. Tournaments offer cash prizes ranging from ₹20,000 to ₹50,000, making it possible for skilled players to generate substantial income. Furthermore, the SSB community in Bengaluru has witnessed a significant representation of female gamers, with a techie named Rahul Diwakar noting the high number of women competitors compared to other gaming communities.In the grand scheme of the gaming world, our community is a magnet for many female gamers. Our diverse group embraces inclusivity, and Super Smash Bros stands out as a game that offers the challenge of professional gaming without the graphic violence. With its array of characters like Kirby and Jigglypuff, the game appeals to fans from different entertainment genres," explains Rahul. Ipsita Thapa, a student at NIFT and part-time cosplayer, invests time and money into her cosplay hobby, with her latest creation costing around ₹5,000. She attends conventions dressed as various characters to bring them to life and spread joy. The professional gaming scene has seen significant improvements, with local players now competing successfully against international players and dedicating themselves to serious practice. Bengaluru's social atmosphere plays a key role in fostering the thriving gaming community, allowing gamers to come together offline and form strong bonds beyond just playing games. "We have evolved from a group of online players to a tight-knit family of friends," says Nitin Rao, a graphic designer and member of the SSB community.