Pokémon Go Sets Sights on Tenfold Increase in Monthly Active Users in India
Pokémon has established itself as one of the most influential gaming franchises in the world. From its humble beginnings with Pokémon Red and Green in 1996, the franchise has grown to encompass over 122 games on various platforms, 24 films, a highly successful anime series, and an extensive range of merchandise.
Given the massive popularity of Pokémon and the unique features of mobile gaming, it was only a matter of time before a game like Pokémon Go emerged. Since its release in 2016, Pokémon Go has become a global sensation. However, the developer Niantic is not content with its current success and aims to increase its monthly active users (MAU) by tenfold in the next three to five years.
India, being one of the largest mobile gaming markets in the world, presents significant opportunities for Pokémon Go. However, there is room for improvement in the country.
“That’s going to take a significant investment, but it’s one that we’re committed to,” said Omar Tellez, Vice President of Emerging Markets at Niantic, in an interview with Economic Times India.
To Be the Very Best
Currently, India is not among the top ten markets for Pokémon Go. However, Niantic believes that with substantial investment and localization efforts, the game can break into the top five within the next 3-5 years. In addition to releasing a Hindi version of the game, Niantic plans to make the title available in the country’s six most widely spoken languages over the next two years.
Other initiatives to boost the game’s presence in India include in-game events celebrating the Hindu festivals Holi and Diwali, special pricing bundles for in-game items to enhance affordability in the Indian market, and the addition of approximately one million Pokéstops in the past year, with plans to add an additional four million in the next twelve months.
“We want to make sure that everybody goes out and has an experience that at least has five Pokéstops within a one-mile radius,” Tellez stated.
So what drives Niantic’s strong focus on India? While India is undoubtedly one of the largest mobile gaming markets globally, it’s important to note that Pokémon Go has been banned in the number one market, China, since 2017, resulting in a significant loss of downloads and revenue. Although the game has propelled Niantic to the top of the mobile gaming industry, the company aims to reach even greater heights. By targeting one of the world’s largest gaming markets, Niantic may well achieve its goal.
Niantic was recently recognized as one of the top 50 mobile game makers of 2023.