Gaming as a recreational activity has a long history, but competitive gaming has recently emerged as a viable source of income in India. Bengaluru has become a hub for gamers, attracting players from around the world to compete and network, both personally and professionally. We spoke with members of the Super Smash Bros (SSB) community in Bengaluru to learn more about their experiences. COVID-19 played a significant role in kickstarting many gaming journeys globally. For instance, Shreyas, a 16-year-old, is currently India's top-ranked Super Smash Bros player, having started his gaming journey during lockdown. Players from various countries, including the UAE and Mumbai, come to Bengaluru for competitions. Arjun Sivaram, ranked 5th in India for Super Smash Bros, shared that he has earned over ₹1.5 lakh through gaming, with prize money ranging from ₹5,000-50,000 in various tournaments. The SSB community in Bengaluru is notable for its high female participation compared to other gaming communities.In the broader gaming landscape, our community has a significant female gamer presence. We pride ourselves on being welcoming to diverse members, and this is partly because Super Smash Bros offers the challenge of professional gaming without the graphic content. With a varied roster of characters like Kirby and Jigglypuff, the game appeals to fans of various entertainment genres. Rahul elaborates, "We are happy to dedicate time and resources to the game."
Ipsita Thapa, a NIFT student and part-time cosplayer, showcased her Link cosplay at the event. She shared, "Creating this outfit from scratch took me over a week and about ₹5,000 in materials. I spend around ₹50,000 annually on cosplay because I enjoy bringing characters to life and spreading happiness at conventions."
The professional gaming scene has progressed positively, with local players now successfully competing against international opponents. Players are dedicated to practice, ensuring improvement over time, as highlighted by Arjun Sivaram.
According to Nitin Rao, a graphic designer and member of the SSB community, Bengaluru's sociable atmosphere has fostered a thriving gaming community. The city's outgoing nature has transformed a group of online players into a close-knit community of friends, creating a familial bond beyond the game.
