Gaming has always been a kind of taboo in our Nepali culture. Most parents considered it a valid concern and associated it with laziness, addiction, and carelessness. Games have the potential to be highly addictive, causing players to get too invested and avoid real life responsibilities. However, in moderation, it can be quite beneficial for mental health, communication and a great way to spend time with friends. This needs some discipline and self-control.
If you can counter the dangerous aspects of gaming like addiction and attachment, gaming can be a good career path as well. The gaming scene is quite new in Nepal, but teams have won big in international competitions. With big wins, they have secured a huge amount of money for themselves. Everyone will not have the same success story, but the aspect of earning while gaming is not a pipe dream in Nepal anymore.
Mobile gaming
Gaming PCs are still not really a thing in Nepal because of how expensive they are. The unstable electric grid and political instability also don’t help. Smartphones are more widespread because they are cheaper, don’t pull in a lot of power, operate unplugged, and also ability to function as a gaming handheld. People pass down their old phones to youngsters as a hand-me-down and there is a bustling market for secondhand phones.
Popular mobile games in Nepal
Several games have gained immense popularity in Nepal. PUBG Mobile, with its realistic graphics and strategic gameplay, has garnered a massive following. Free Fire, known for its fast-paced action, has also become a favorite among Nepali gamers. Mobile Legends, a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game, has found a dedicated player base. According to a survey conducted by the Nepal Esports Association, PUBG Mobile is the most played game in Nepal, followed closely by Free Fire and Mobile Legends.
Accomplishments in International Arena
Nepali Esports players have accomplished top positions with enormous rewards. From PUBG to Mobile Legends, Nepali players have won over $1.5 million in rewards. PUBG is still the top leader in contributing to the tally. Others are still growing in influence, and we’re likely to see more players earning big in multiple games.
Teams to Watch
Horaa Esports and DRS Gaming (Da Real Soldiers) are the two top esports teams from the country in the international PUBG arena. Shahas “KillerYT” Bhandari from DRS Gaming is the highest earner with over $1 million to his name.
The future of the gaming scene in Nepal
As the players and teams light up the international arenas, there needs to be more support for events. As the buzz of Nepali players winning echoes through social media and teenagers in the country, supervision and management of current and future talent are essential to maintain momentum. We should challenge the stereotype of gaming as a lazy pastime with understanding the career potential. The government and the community should join forces to back this new revenue opportunity.
