Google Proposes Expanded Real-Money Gaming on Play Store

Google has just rolled out a major proposal to India’s Competition Commission (CCI) that could reshape the country’s booming real-money gaming market. By replacing its current pilot program, the tech giant wants to open Google Play and its ad platform to all self-declared real-money gaming apps—as long as developers secure third-party certification that their product qualifies as a “game of skill.”

Proposed Policy Changes

In September 2022, Google launched a pilot to let daily fantasy sports and rummy apps into India’s Play Store after the Supreme Court deemed fantasy sports a legal “game of skill.” Now, Google is offering to ditch restrictions entirely. Any developer can distribute real-money gaming titles by self-declaration, provided a recognized third-party—like the All India Gaming Federation or E-Gaming Federation—confirms it’s a skill-based game.

Timeline and Implementation

Under Google’s commitment, compliant real-money games would appear on the Play Store within 120 days of CCI approval. Ad policy updates for “games of skill” would roll out within 150 days. Developers must also provide proof of third-party certification before running ads targeting Indian users.

Market Impact

Real-money gaming dominates India’s online segment, generating ₹274.38 billion ($3 billion) in 2024—86% of industry revenue. As casual titles gain traction, RMG’s share may slip to 80% by 2029, but a broader Play Store catalogue could give developers a significant boost in downloads and ad revenue.

Antitrust Context

WinZO’s 2022 complaint to the Delhi High Court accused Google’s pilot of discriminatory bias. In November, the CCI formally probed whether Google abused dominance via Android and the Play Store. Google now hopes this public proposal will resolve the case and expand its share of revenue from app sales and ads.

What Developers Need to Know

• Self-declare your game as a real-money title under applicable Indian laws.
• Obtain certification from a recognized third-party association proving it’s a game of skill.
• Submit the proof and updated app package to Google Play and await listing within 120 days post-approval.
• Plan ad campaigns around the 150-day window for policy rollout, ensuring compliance documentation is in place.

As India’s gaming ecosystem evolves, developers can seize this moment to expand their reach. QuarkyByte’s analytical approach helps studios map out certification pathways, optimize ad strategies under new rules, and ensure a smooth Play Store launch. Staying ahead of policy shifts means higher visibility, deeper user trust, and stronger revenue streams.