Deconstructor of Fun 308. The 8 Trends That Will Redefine Gaming in Asia (and Beyond)
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Oct 20, 2025 Daniel Ahmad, Director of Research & Insights at Niko Partners, and Lisa Hanson, CEO and Founder of Niko Partners, delve into the dynamic Asian and MENA gaming markets. They discuss China's evolving policies and opening up to foreign studios, while highlighting India's growth potential and monetization strategies. The conversation also explores the emerging role of female gamers in MENA and the cultural sensitivities around mature titles like GTA V. Additionally, they shed light on Southeast Asia's unique monetization strategies and the region’s quick adoption of generative AI.
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China's Policy Shift Is Strategic Opening
- China is streamlining policies to balance economic growth and cultural control, not abandoning regulation.
- A Shanghai pilot lets foreign companies with local studios use domestic approval, speeding access to the market.
Match China Strategy To Your Risk Appetite
- Decide to enter China only if your company accepts long-term risk and commitment in-market.
- If you already have trusted local partners, avoid unnecessarily setting up your own studio.
India Is Mobile-First Growth With Monetization Gaps
- India leapfrogged into mobile and remains a young, fast-growing gaming market with huge long-term potential.
- Monetization is concentrated among high-income cohorts; converting wider spenders is the key challenge.
