India’s online gaming market is booming—and at the heart of this growth is Games24x7. Founded in 2006, the company transformed from a small gaming startup to a ₹21,000 crore unicorn, with hit platforms like RummyCircle and My11Circle. Serving over 100 million users, Games24x7 has redefined skill-based and fantasy gaming in India.
Founders Behind the Vision
Games24x7 was co-founded by Bhavin Pandya, a Purdue University engineering graduate, and Trivikraman Thampy, an IIT Bombay alumnus with a PhD in Economics from NYU. Their combined technical and analytical skills laid the foundation for a user-first, data-driven gaming platform aimed at making gaming both entertaining and responsible.
The Early Days and Inspiration
Back in 2006, India’s internet and smartphone penetration was still low. But Bhavin and Trivikraman envisioned an online platform where players could engage in skill-based games—not just chance. They launched RummyCircle, which soon gained traction as mobile use surged and online gaming went mainstream.
User-Centric Product Strategy
Games24x7 focused heavily on user experience and behavior. Through advanced data analytics, the company understood what players wanted and adapted rapidly. Features were continuously refined to drive retention, engagement, and virality—encouraging players to invite friends and build community.
Diversification: Beyond Just One Game
While RummyCircle laid the groundwork, diversification propelled Games24x7 forward. In 2019, the company launched My11Circle, a fantasy sports platform that gained immense popularity, especially during cricket seasons. It later expanded into casual games, offering something for every type of gamer.
Responsible Gaming at the Core
Games24x7 stands out by actively promoting responsible gaming. The company uses in-game behavior analytics to monitor signs of unhealthy gaming. Players flagged for excessive usage receive counseling support, and are sometimes nudged to take breaks. This ethical approach has earned it trust and long-term loyalty from users.
Business Model & Revenue Streams
Games24x7 operates on a freemium model—most games are free, but players pay for premium features or entry into tournaments. Major revenue comes from:
- Entry fees in fantasy contests
- In-app purchases
- Targeted advertising This hybrid model allows the company to scale rapidly while maximizing user engagement.
Strategic Growth and Partnerships
Brand partnerships played a crucial role in My11Circle’s success. Collaborations with cricket legends like Sourav Ganguly helped the brand establish trust and connect with cricket fans. Games24x7 also partners with tech firms to integrate cutting-edge AI and gaming technology into its platforms.
Market Position and Impact
Games24x7 commands a significant share in India’s $2B gaming industry. With over 100 million users and presence across multiple game categories, the company is uniquely positioned to lead the next wave of digital gaming in India—especially among mobile-first users.
Lessons from the Games24x7 Journey
- Know Your Users: Deep data-driven insights helped Games24x7 refine its product to meet evolving player needs.
- Diversify Early: Relying on a single game is risky; expanding into fantasy and casual games widened its audience.
- Invest in Ethics: Supporting responsible gaming is not just good PR—it fosters long-term sustainability.
- Leverage Celebrities: Strategic brand ambassadors create instant credibility and scale brand awareness.
- Adapt Fast: Navigating India’s fragmented legal landscape required agility and compliance-first thinking.
Wrapping Up
The Games24x7 success story is a blueprint for startups in India’s booming digital economy. With visionary founders, ethical gaming practices, and a user-first philosophy, the company went from a niche rummy portal to a unicorn shaping the future of Indian gaming. As more players come online, Games24x7 is set to grow even bigger—while staying committed to innovation, trust, and user well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the valuation of Games24x7?
As of 2022, Games24x7 reached unicorn status with a ₹21,000 crore ($2.6 billion) valuation.
Q2. Who founded Games24x7?
The company was founded by Bhavin Pandya and Trivikraman Thampy in 2006.
Q3. How does Games24x7 earn revenue?
It follows a freemium model with earnings from in-app purchases, fantasy league entries, and advertisements.
Q4. What games does Games24x7 offer?
Popular platforms include RummyCircle (skill-based rummy), My11Circle (fantasy sports), and several casual games.
Q5. What makes Games24x7 different from competitors?
Its focus on user behavior, responsible gaming, data-driven development, and celebrity-backed marketing makes it stand out in the Indian gaming space.