The mobile gaming industry in Indonesia has witnessed exponential growth in recent years, signaling a promising future for developers and investors alike.

Indonesia’s mobile gaming industry has over 111 million players, with many having low English proficiency. This provides a great opportunity for game developers to expand their market reach. If you want to expand your gaming market to Indonesia, read the comprehensive details here!

An Overview of the Indonesian Gaming Market

With a staggering 156 million smartphone users, comprising 60% of the total population, and a gaming market valued at US$1.68 billion, Indonesia stands as a prominent player in the global gaming arena. Also, Indonesian gamers accounted for 43%of the total number of game consumers in Southeast Asia in 2022.

The country’s mobile gaming sector, particularly, is witnessing exponential growth, driven by increased smartphone accessibility and internet penetration. In 2022, mobile games in Indonesia had over three billion downloads recorded across all platforms.

As mentioned above, the volume of Indonesian gamers population is over 111 million, according to Statista. Another statistic from Statista also predicts that by 2027, Indonesia’s mobile games market users are expected to rise to 76.9m users.

The widespread adoption of mobile gaming is evident in Indonesians’ daily activities. Playing online games ranks as one of the top free-time activities among the 15-44 age group, with 71%, alongside social media usage (64%) and chatting (36%).

In terms of game genres, Indonesians display a diverse range of preferences, with action games taking the lead, followed by casual, arcade, and simulation games. Notably, multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) and first-person shooter (FPS) games like Mobile Legends and Free Fire also dominate the Indonesian gaming landscape.

Top Game Genres in Indonesia

From action-packed adventures to brain-teasing puzzles, the Indonesian gaming landscape has a variety of game genres, each with its own unique appeal. Here are the top 10 categories:

• Action (Examples: Free Fire, Mobile Legends, Stumble Guys)

• Casual (Examples: My Talking Tom, Pou, Candy Crush Saga)

• Arcade (Examples: Subway Surfers, Minecraft, Stickman)

• Simulation (Examples: Ojol the Game, The Sims, SimCity)

• Educational (Examples: Coloring & Learn, Cube Cipher - Cube Solver, BRIO World)

• Racing (Examples: Need for Speed, Hill Climb Racing, Asphalt)

• Puzzle (Examples: Royal Match, Fishdom, Brain Out)

• Sports (Examples: Football League, 8 Ball Pool, Fishing Hook)

• Strategy (Examples: Clash of Clans, Rise of Kingdoms, Plants vs Zombies)

• Adventure (Examples: Roblox, Genshin Impact, Honkai: Star Rail)

Ranking Factors for Popular Games in Indonesia

Understanding the factors contributing to games’ popularity in this diverse market is essential for developers and publishers looking to succeed. According to StrawPoll, here are the most significant factors affecting mobile games’ popularity in Indonesia:

• Number of Players

  Games with a large player base tend to be more popular as they offer a broader social experience and competitive environment. The higher the number of players, the more likely a game will gain traction and maintain its popularity over time.

• Public Recognition

  Public recognition also plays a significant role. Games that are widely known and discussed in public spaces such as cafes, parks, and schools tend to attract more players. This recognition indicates the game’s influence and appeal across different demographics.

• Online Presence

  This includes social media discussions, blog posts, forums, and the number of views and downloads on gaming platforms. Games with a strong online presence are more likely to attract new players and retain existing ones through community engagement.

• Competition

  Moreover, national and international championships, cash prizes, and sponsorships within the eSports scene play a significant role in promoting and sustaining the popularity of certain games in the country.

• Media Coverage

  Games that receive substantial coverage in magazines, newspapers, television, social media, and online articles tend to gain visibility and credibility among players. Positive media attention can significantly impact a game’s popularity and success in the market.

• Accessibility

  The accessibility of a game includes its affordability and ease of access to equipment. Games that are affordable and compatible with a wide range of devices are more likely to attract a larger audience. Accessibility ensures that players from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds can enjoy and engage with the game.

• Demographic Appeal

  Also, a game’s appeal to different age groups, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds contributes to its popularity in Indonesia. Games that resonate with a broad demographic tend to have a more significant impact and reach a wider audience.

• Cultural Significance

  The cultural relevance of a game to Indonesian culture, history, or traditions can enhance its popularity. Games incorporating elements of Indonesian culture or folklore resonate with players on a deeper level, fostering a sense of pride and connection.

• Word of Mouth

  Word of mouth is crucial in spreading awareness and generating interest in games among Indonesian players. Recommendations from friends, family, and peers can influence player decisions and contribute to the viral spread of popular games.

• Longevity

  Lastly, the longevity of a game’s popularity reflects its staying power and enduring appeal in Indonesia. Games that maintain a loyal fan base and active community over time demonstrate their enduring value and relevance.

The Potential and Benefits of Indonesia’s Mobile Gaming Landscape

According to Statista, Indonesia’s mobile gaming market potential is projected to reach a revenue of US$316.80 million in 2024, with an annual growth rate of 6.84%. In 2023 alone, Indonesia’s gaming market reached a total economic value of approximately US$1.1 billion.

This growth is fueled by factors such as increasing smartphone penetration, a young and tech-savvy population, and improved accessibility to mobile internet devices.

One key benefit of Indonesia’s mobile gaming landscape is its diverse audience. With Gen Y and Gen Z comprising two-thirds of the target market, developers have the opportunity to engage with a large and dynamic demographic.

Moreover, Indonesians have shown a strong preference for various game genres, including action, casual, arcade, and simulation. This diversity allows developers to explore different gaming concepts and cater to various preferences.

The National Regulation of Indonesian Gaming Ecosystem

Furthermore, Indonesia’s regulatory environment is becoming more conducive to the growth of the gaming industry. Recently, the Indonesian government has taken proactive steps to solidify the nation’s gaming ecosystem through Presidential Regulation No. 19 of 2024.

This regulation encompasses various aspects, including research and development, educational initiatives, infrastructure provision, financing and funding facilities, marketing system development, intellectual property incentives, and creative works protection.

The ministry has collaborated with the Ministry of Communication and Informatics to develop additional regulations that align with the presidential decree.

Also, after the decree was issued, the government established the National Gaming Industry Development Acceleration Team. This team is responsible for coordinating efforts, synchronizing actions, and implementing policies to address challenges and barriers in the industry.

The government’s efforts to solidify the national gaming ecosystem through regulations and initiatives demonstrate a commitment to supporting the sector. This regulatory framework provides developers with greater clarity and stability, encouraging investment and innovation in the Indonesian mobile gaming space.

How to Succeed in the Indonesian Mobile Game Industry

To enter the Indonesian mobile game industry, several key considerations can greatly impact your success. Understanding the nuances of the local market and tailoring your approach accordingly can make a significant difference. Here’s a detailed guide to help you succeed:

• Consider the Language

  Language plays a crucial role in engaging with the Indonesian gaming audience. While English may be widely understood, especially among urban gamers, using Bahasa Indonesia can enhance the accessibility and appeal of your game.

  So, it’s essential to recognize that casual gamers, in particular, prefer games in their native language for a more immersive experience.

• For Casual Games, Use Bahasa Indonesia (Indonesian Language)

  When developing casual games for the Indonesian market, incorporating Bahasa Indonesia is crucial. Casual games often rely on simplicity and humor to engage players, and using the local language can amplify these elements.

  For example, games like “Duel Otak,” a quiz game by a Swedish game developer, FEO Media AB, have captured Indonesian gamers’ attention by embracing Bahasa Indonesia as their default language, leading to widespread popularity and virality.

• Avoid Inappropriate Content

  Respecting cultural sensitivities is crucial when developing mobile games for Indonesia as a country with a deep-rooted Eastern culture, especially with the large Muslim population.

  Content that may be deemed inappropriate, such as explicit sexual themes, can negatively impact your game’s reception and potentially harm your brand. So, understanding and adhering to Indonesia’s cultural norms regarding content can help maintain a positive reputation and foster a supportive gaming community.

• Choose the Right Localization Service

  Therefore, partnering with a reliable localization service is essential for effectively adapting your game to the Indonesian market. Look for agencies with a deep understanding of Indonesian culture, gaming behavior, and market trends.

  A knowledgeable localization partner can ensure accurate translation, cultural relevance, and appropriate adaptation, ultimately enhancing your game’s appeal and success in Indonesia.

Takeaway

By considering these factors and strategically navigating the Indonesian mobile game industry, developers can position themselves for success in one of the world’s fastest-growing gaming markets.

So, a professional localization service is pivotal in bridging the gap between foreign games and Indonesian gamers, ensuring widespread adoption and engagement in the country’s vibrant and dynamic market.