Although gaming as a hobby has a long history, competitive gaming has only recently emerged as a viable source of income in India. Bengaluru has become a major hub for gamers, attracting players from around the world to compete, connect, and improve personally and professionally. We caught up with the Bengaluru Super Smash Bros (SSB) community to learn more about their experiences.
Shreyas, a 16-year-old who is currently ranked as India's top Super Smash Bros player, shares his gaming journey. He explains that during the COVID lockdown, he and a friend discovered online tournaments while looking for things to do. This led them to dive into Super Smash Bros, eventually turning their hobby into a passion that resonated with many others.
Players from various countries travel to Bengaluru for competitions; among them is a player from the UAE and several from Mumbai. Arjun Sivaram, India's fifth-ranked Super Smash Bros player, highlights the earning potential in competitive gaming. He mentions winning over ₹1.5 lakh in prize money and emphasizes that podium finishes can lead to significant earnings, with rewards ranging from ₹20,000 to ₹50,000 in major tournaments.
One notable aspect of the Bengaluru SSB community is the high participation of female gamers, a trend that sets them apart from other gaming communities. Rahul Diwakar, a member of the community, points out that they have attracted a substantial number of women competitors, reflecting a growing diversity within the gaming scene."When looking at the broad gaming landscape, our community is proud to attract a significant number of female gamers. Our diverse group of members fosters inclusivity, and Super Smash Bros stands out as a game that combines the competitiveness of professional gaming without graphic violence. With a varied selection of characters like Kirby and Jigglypuff, the game appeals to fans of various entertainment genres," explains Rahul.
Ipsita Thapa, a NIFT student and part-time cosplayer, attended the event dressed as Link from The Legend of Zelda. Ipsita shares, "It took me over a week to create this outfit from scratch, with materials costing around ₹5,000. I happily invest over ₹50,000 annually in cosplay because I enjoy bringing characters to life and spreading joy at conventions."
The professional gaming community has shown improvement over the years, now frequently besting international players, a feat previously uncommon. Players are increasingly dedicated to honing their skills, a positive development according to Arjun Sivaram.
"Bengaluru's vibrant social environment has fostered the growth of our gaming community. Unlike other cities where gaming is often solitary, Bengaluru's outgoing culture has allowed us to thrive. What began as an online group has evolved into a close-knit, familial community, extending our friendships beyond the game," shares Nitin Rao, a graphic designer and member of the SSB community.
