Exclusive: Serious fun-lovers only – the Future of PC Gaming in India

Asus recently launched its 6th generation gaming devices in India. Priced between Rs. 82k to over Rs. 3.25 lakhs, it’s meant for deep pockets and serious fun-lovers only.

Now India is a limited sporting nation, so to expect an Indian kid to pick up a laptop for the price of a car seemed a bit far-fetched.

Business Insider sat down with Mr. Peter Chang, Regional Head - South Asia & Country Manager, ASUS India with a never-say-never spirit to discuss the potential of PC gaming in India, and to understand who buys this crazy stuff.

How much does the gaming segment contribute to Asus’s India revenue?
Not a lot right now.

Gaming notebooks are only 2% of the total notebook market. For us the number maybe slightly higher, but here it’s all about looking into the future. That’s why we plan to invest more now.

How long could it take for Gaming PCs to be a sizeable part of the Indian market?
It’s hard to predict, but we’re sure it’ll grow fast.

What’s extremely important is internet penetration. Most PCs now are connected to the internet. High speed internet is critical for enjoying multi-player gaming.

We see India as a strong potential market. Even the young generation, while they might not always own gaming PCs play games.

Have the Consoles stunted the growth of gaming PCs?
The affordable pricing of the consoles helps to grow the market.

Computer gaming is headed in a different direction as compared to console and mobile gaming. Those are more casual, but computer gaming is more professional and requires more skill.

What’s the future of PC gaming?
PC gaming will continue to have a sizeable amount of the world market because there are things you can’t replace.

The role-playing or fighting games may have moved to the consoles, but shooting and adventure games are still with the PCs.

Who’s the target buyer for your latest range of gaming laptops?
It’s targeted at serious gamers, but we see potential in casual players as well.

Any plans of launching E-Sports Tournaments in India?
We’re constantly thinking of newer ways to develop the segment and engage gamers in India.

Any plans to make Gaming PCs in India?
Not anytime soon. The whole PC gaming ecosystem is not in India, so we majorly import.

We’ll be happy to see that ecosystem in India sometime soon.

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