General
HP India’s Strategic Moves to Empower and Educate Gamers
Explore how HP India is strategically positioning itself in the thriving esports industry, shifting perceptions, and empowering gamers through educational initiatives.
Introduction
With the rising popularity of gaming in India, HP is strategically positioning itself to tap into and support the growing esports trend. Vickram Bedi, Senior Director of Personal Systems at HP India, shared valuable insights into the impressive growth of the gaming industry and HP’s initiatives aimed at empowering and educating gamers.
Changing Perceptions
According to HP’s research, there has been a shift in how parents perceive gaming. Now 42% of parents approve of gaming as a hobby, while 47% see it as a career option—both percentages have increased from 32% in 2021. Bedi emphasizes the importance of showcasing inspiring stories of gamers who have successfully built careers in esports through campaigns with the goal of changing skeptical viewpoints.
Diverse Career Opportunities in Gaming
Contrary to assumptions about careers in gaming, Bedi highlights the opportunities that are emerging in areas such as content creation, streaming and event organization. Gamers can now build their brands and attract followers beyond their gameplay skills alone. They can also earn income through sponsorships. HP’s study supports this evolving recognition of gamers as individuals capable of connecting with diverse audiences.
HP Educational Initiatives
Recognizing the growing demand for tailored opportunities within the gaming industry, HP has launched the Gaming Garage program. This program offers online courses focused on esports management and game design. These courses, which are available on edX in various languages such as English, Hindi and Telugu, have the goal of enhancing the skills of individuals who aspire to be gamers. Moreover, HPs Omen Playground stores across the nation provide a space where gamers can test out equipment and foster communities.
Optimistic Outlook for Esports in India
Bedi expresses optimism regarding the future of esports in India. Highlights its inclusion in the Asian Games 2023 as evidence of its widespread acceptance. He predicts that in the coming years, esports will be recognized on a par with traditional sports in India. HP actively contributes to this evolution by offering learning opportunities and utilizing cutting-edge technology to support the esports industry.
Empowering Women in Gaming
According to the HP India Gaming Landscape Study 2023 58% of women gamers in India spend at least 12 hours per week gaming. Bedi discusses how Omen Playground stores and the HP Gaming Garage play a role in providing access for women and fostering relevant skills. HP is actively involved in creating an inclusive and supportive gaming environment by acknowledging streaming and content creation as avenues that provide more opportunities for women within the industry.
Advice for Gamers
Bedi offers straightforward yet impactful advice to those aspiring to become gamers: “Take full advantage of online courses and learning opportunities.” Discover how HP India is strategically positioning itself in the world of esports by transforming perceptions and empowering gamers through educational initiatives. Vickram Bedi, Senior Director of Personal Systems at HP India, sheds light on the evolving gaming industry and HP’s crucial role in fostering the growth of esports.
