New Delhi — LVL Zero, a gaming incubator backed by MIXI Global Investments, Nazara Technologies, and Chimera VC, has received more than 240 applications for its first cohort, reflecting increased activity among early-stage gaming startups in India.
The applications, submitted from across the country after the program opened on January 26, highlight a rise in small studio formation and growing interest in developing games for PC and console platforms alongside mobile. According to the data, nearly 46.9% of applicants were founded in 2025, while 66.8% were established in 2024 or later, indicating a recent influx of new entrants into the sector.
Most applicants are small teams, typically consisting of three to four members. Nearly half are at the prototype stage, with others progressing through alpha, beta, or already operating live products.
The data also shows that 58.5% of applicants are building for PC and 36.1% for console platforms, while mobile-focused teams demonstrate faster product launches. More than 30% of applicants referenced live-service systems and data-driven design approaches, and 22.8% indicated the use of artificial intelligence in development.
Additionally, about 36% of projects incorporate Indian cultural themes, with many targeting global audiences. Applications were concentrated in cities such as Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, and Delhi NCR.
LVL Zero plans to select 10 startups for its inaugural cohort, each receiving a $10,000 grant and participating in a 100-day program focused on product development and market readiness.
