Krafton India Gaming Incubator (KIGI): Krafton’s Efforts To Boost India’s Game Development Environment

Krafton the renowned gaming company behind PUBG and BGMI (Battlegrounds Mobile India), has recently introduced an exciting new initiative called the Krafton India Gaming Incubator (KIGI).

With India’s position as one of the world’s fastest-growing gaming markets, this initiative aims to nurture creativity, innovation, and talent in the Indian gaming industry. Here is everything you need to know about the KIGI.

What Are The Objectives of KIGI and How Will It Support the Indian Developers?

Over the years, India has witnessed a rise in gamers and developers, and KIGI aims to play a major role in this growth. Here’s a breakdown of the key objectives:

1) Selection of Promising Startups: Krafton India will invite various gaming startups to participate in the KIGI program. Then they will carefully select startups and game developers based on their potential, creativity, and innovative ideas. This selection process ensures that the most promising candidates are chosen to benefit from the program. [NOTE: KIGI will not allow applications from companies primarily focused on gambling or real-money gaming.]

2) Support Early-Stage Startups: One of the primary goals is to assist early-stage startups, including those in the conceptualization phase. By providing them with the necessary tools and guidance, KIGI helps these startups turn their ideas into successful ventures.

3) Provide Financial Support: KIGI will offer financial assistance tailored to the needs of each selected startup. The funding, which ranges from $50,000 to $150,000, will be used to support various aspects of game development, such as technology, marketing, and infrastructure.

4) Access to Krafton’s Resources: Startups in the KIGI program will benefit from access to Krafton’s extensive resources, including data analytics, market research, and technological tools.

5) Mentorship from Industry Experts: A key component of KIGI is the mentorship program, where participants will have access to seasoned professionals from the gaming industry. These mentors, including top executives and game developers, will provide guidance on game design, development, business strategy, and market positioning. Notable mentors in the program include Dave Curd, Creative Director at PUBG Studios, and Harns Kim, Game Producer at Krafton.

6) Promote Inclusivity: Krafton India is making the KIGI program inclusive by opening it to early-stage startups, student teams, and independent developers. By casting a wide net, KIGI ensures that talent from various backgrounds and experience levels has the opportunity to thrive in the gaming industry.

7) Publishing and Investment Opportunities: Upon completing the incubation period, startups will be offered opportunities to publish their games with the backing of external investors. Additionally, Krafton may provide equity investments to further support the growth and success of these startups. This ongoing support ensures that the impact of KIGI extends beyond the incubation phase.

8) Continuous Program Evaluation and Expansion: Krafton India plans to continuously evaluate the success of the KIGI program and make necessary adjustments to enhance its effectiveness. Further, it will also expand the program to include new applicants and cohorts according to need.

9) Aligning with National Goals: Krafton is aligning KIGI with the Indian government’s vision of upskilling the workforce and enhancing employability. By focusing on the development of gaming talent, the program contributes to creating skilled professionals in the gaming sector, thereby supporting national economic and employment goals.

Ultimately, Krafton India aims to build a robust and sustainable gaming ecosystem in India. By providing startups with the necessary tools, resources, and mentorship, KIGI seeks to empower the next generation of game developers, positioning India as a key player in the global gaming industry. As Sean Hyunil Sohn, CEO, of Krafton India, commented:

“We are excited to nurture the next generation of gaming talent in the country and align with the government’s vision of upskilling the Indian workforce and increasing employability”.

First Cohort

In March 2024, Krafton India launched its first cohort under the KIGI program, selecting two Indian startups:

• ReDimension Games: developing an action-adventure game, ‘Sojourn Past’
• Shura Games: developer of culinary puzzle adventures mobile game ‘Spice Secrets’

In May 2024, Krafton India expanded its first cohort and invited new applicants to join the program. The two new additions to this cohort are:

• Arjuna Studios: Currently developing “Gangster Carnival,” an exciting battle royale game
• Dunali Games: Working on “Tale of Honour,” an Android strategy-driven stealth puzzle game

It is part of Krafton’s larger initiative where they announce an investment of over $150 million in the Indian gaming ecosystem.

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