In collaboration with the Super Smash Bros (SSB) community in Bengaluru, we delve into the gaming landscape in the city. While gaming has long been a popular hobby, competitive gaming has recently emerged as a viable income source in India. As Bengaluru becomes a haven for gamers, enthusiasts from around the globe convene to compete, network, and enhance their skills both personally and professionally. We catch up with the Bengaluru Super Smash Bros (SSB) community to learn more about their perspective on the rise of gaming:
"COVID has kickstarted numerous gaming journeys worldwide," shares Shreyas, a 16-year-old who currently holds the top spot as India's Super Smash Bros player and has faced off against international competitors. Reflecting on his gaming evolution, he recounts, "During the COVID lockdown, with plenty of spare time indoors, my friend and I delved into playing Super Smash Bros on new gaming consoles. Discovering online tournaments, we began participating, leading to a significant expansion of our gaming passion. This narrative echoes with many others."
Bengaluru attracts players globally, including representatives from the UAE and Mumbai. Nitin Rao notes, "A substantial earning potential exists in competitive gaming." Arjun Sivaram, India's fifth-ranked Super Smash Bros gamer who traveled from Mumbai for a tournament, shares that he has amassed over ₹1.5 lakh through gaming. "There's a myriad of tournaments offering rewards ranging from ₹20,000 to ₹30,000. I secured ₹20,000 for finishing second in a tournament. Achieving a podium spot can yield good earnings," Arjun explains, with Shreyas adding, "Weekly tournaments typically offer ₹5,000-10,000 for winners, while larger tournaments boast prize pools reaching ₹30,000-50,000."
Rahul Diwakar, a community techie, highlights that they have attracted a substantial number of female gamers, creating an inclusive gaming environment.The Super Smash Bros (SSB) community has a higher number of female participants compared to other gaming communities. According to Rahul, an unofficial estimate suggests that the SSB community attracts a significant number of female gamers due to its inclusive nature and the game's appeal of professional-level challenge without violent themes. The diverse range of characters available for selection, such as Kirby and Jigglypuff, further draws fans from various entertainment genres.
Ipsita Thapa, a NIFT student and part-time cosplayer, shared her passion for creating cosplay outfits like Link from The Legend of Zelda, which can take considerable time and investment in materials. She enthusiastically invests in her hobby, spending a substantial amount annually to bring characters to life at conventions and spread joy among fans.
The professional gaming community has made significant progress, with Indian players now competing with and defeating overseas competitors. This improvement is evident through the dedication and practice put in by players like Arjun Sivaram.
Nitin Rao, a graphic designer and member of the SSB community, attributes the thriving gaming community in Bengaluru to the city's social atmosphere. Unlike other cities where gamers tend to stay isolated, Bengaluru's outgoing nature has fostered a close-knit group of friends within the SSB community, creating a familial bond beyond the game itself.
