Google’s Policy Shift: A New Era for Real-Money Gaming in India

Google’s Policy Shift: A New Era for Real-Money Gaming in India

The Indian gaming industry just got a significant jolt. Google has proposed major changes to its Play Store policy that could reshape the future of real-money gaming (RMG) apps in India.

If approved, these changes will allow all legally compliant skill-based RMG apps—think poker, rummy, fantasy sports, and more—to be listed and advertised on Google Play. This is a huge departure from the earlier pilot program, which was restricted to only Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) and Rummy.

🔄 What’s Changing?

• Play Store access for all skill-based RMG apps that meet India’s legal requirements.
• Mandatory certification from recognised industry bodies like AIGF, FIFS, or EGF to confirm legality.
• Advertising permissions for certified games, allowing them to reach millions of Android users.
• 120-day window for compliant apps to go live after the policy is accepted.

📊 The Impact on Indian Gaming Companies

This move is a level playing field moment for Indian gaming. Until now, smaller or newer gaming startups faced a distribution roadblock—Google Play access was limited, forcing them to rely on web-based APK downloads and costly user acquisition campaigns.

Now, compliant games will have:

• Direct access to India’s largest mobile app marketplace.
• Legitimate advertising channels to build user trust.
• Better monetisation opportunities without depending entirely on third-party distribution.

🚀 The Business Opportunity

For gaming entrepreneurs, this is the moment to act.

If you’ve been waiting to launch your fantasy sports league, poker platform, or any other skill-based gaming idea—this is your window. With Google opening up both distribution and advertising, your game can now be:

• Visible to millions instantly.
• Backed by legitimate industry certification.
• Monetised through compliant in-app purchases and ad placements.

⚠️ The Risks & Considerations

While the opportunity is massive, there are challenges:

• Certification costs & timelines — you’ll need industry validation before listing.
• Legal clarity — gaming laws in India vary by state, and compliance is non-negotiable.
• Platform fees — Google may implement a new RMG-specific revenue model.
• Market competition — with easier entry, expect a surge in new gaming apps.

💬 Our Advice: Move Fast, But Move Smart

If you already have a concept—or even just an idea—for a new gaming platform, now is the time to start building in line with Google’s upcoming policy.

At Northcorp Software, we can help you:

• Validate your game’s legal compliance.
• Guide you through certification with industry associations.
• Design, build, and scale your platform for rapid user acquisition.
• Optimise monetisation under Google’s future RMG model.

📩 If you’re planning your next big move in gaming, let’s talk. We’ll help you turn this policy shift into a business advantage.

🔭 Northcorp Software Your Northern Star in Digital Gaming Transformation

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