The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming (PROG) Act, 2025, might have confused the non-gamer, but gamers are all on board.
Confused? Well, most gamers, i.e, players of video games—both online and offline—have never considered what the Indian government calls “online money games”.
Players of classics like God of War and the Assassin’s Creed titles, along with those playing Battlefield and Call of Duty, all rely on skills, which they say the likes of online rummy or poker do not have.
“Betting is not gaming. No skill is involved. And strategy is not skill. We have invested years into becoming better gamers,” said a video game player from Bengaluru.
Another gamer from Mumbai recalled how they were once asked to review a “game”. “I was surprised that it was a real money gambling app. To call this a game, is an insult to all games,” they added.
In the union government’s own words, online social games are casual games that form part of everyday recreation. “They are primarily skill-based and designed for entertainment, learning, or social interaction. Such games are generally considered safe and do not cause negative social consequences.”
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In contrast, the “online money games” were banned because “platforms raised serious concerns due to reports of addiction, financial losses, money laundering, and even cases of suicide linked to heavy monetary losses.” These include fantasy leagues that let you hedge bets on your draft picks with real money.
Dream11 broke up with the Indian cricket team as a major sponsor. My11Circle is reportedly looking to break its Rs 625 crore pledge to the Indian Premier League.
Some gambling apps are even musing on fighting the latest legislation. But there are some, like the bootstrapped Gameskraft, maker of Rummyculture, who have come around.
“As a responsible and law-abiding corporate entity, Gameskraft has no intention of pursuing any legal challenge to the legislation. We fully respect the legislative process and remain committed to operating within the framework of the law. Gameskraft remains committed to constructive dialogue with policymakers and stakeholders, responsible innovation, player protection, and regulatory alignment,” it added.
Despite the online gaming (PROG) act coming down heavily on the gambling apps (a much more appropriate term to gaming), the centre specifically outlined that they did it to safeguard India’s promising Esports industry. The government defined Esports as “competitive digital sports where teams or individuals participate in organised tournaments. Success in Esports requires strategy, coordination, and advanced decision-making skills.”
