New Bill Bans Online Games Involving Money Transactions, Forcing Startups to Pause Operations
Overview of the Online Gaming Bill, 2025
The newly passed Online Gaming Bill, 2025, approved by both houses of Parliament, marks a turning point for India’s real-money gaming sector. The bill proposes a complete ban on online games involving monetary transactions, including platforms where users deposit money expecting cash rewards.
This legislation targets fantasy sports, skill-based paid games, and other real-money gaming apps amid rising concerns over:
- User addiction
- Financial harm
- Money laundering
- Terror financing
With the bill close to being signed into law, several startups have already suspended real-money operations to comply with the directive.
List of Apps That Have Halted Real-Money Gaming
1. Dream11 (Dream Sports)
- Paused: Pay-to-Play contests on Dream Picks
- Suspended: Real-money casual games on Dream Play
- Note: Users can withdraw existing balances safely
“We are pausing all ‘Pay to Play’ contests in view of the Online Gaming Bill, 2025.” — Dream11 App Notification
2. Hike (Rush)
- Closed: Real-money gaming operations of Rush in India
- Shifted Focus: Company to concentrate on US market
- Statement: Announcement made by CEO Kavin Bharti Mittal on LinkedIn
3. Zupee
- Discontinued: All “Paid Games”
- Available: Free games like Ludo Supreme, Snakes & Ladders, and Trump Card Mania
“Paid games are being discontinued, but free titles remain accessible to users.” — Zupee Spokesperson
4. PokerBaazi (Moonshine Technologies)
- Halted: Real-money poker operations
- Stakeholder: Nazara Technologies (46.07% stake)
- Future Plans: To be decided post enactment of the law
“PokerBaazi has ceased operations in full respect of the Government’s mandate.” — Nazara Exchange Filing
5. Probo
- Shut Down: Real-money gaming features
- Stance: Company respects government decision and will pause until further notice
6. Mobile Premier League (MPL)
- Suspended: All real-money games, including over 60 titles across fantasy sports and esports
- User Balance: Withdrawals allowed, deposits disabled
“Online money games will no longer be available on MPL, but customer funds are safe.” — MPL Statement
7. Gameskraft
- Paused: Real-money rummy and poker (Pocket52)
- Access: Withdrawal functions remain active
“We have paused ‘Add Cash’ and gameplay services; user funds are secure.” — Gameskraft Announcement
Implications of the Online Gaming Bill, 2025
This legislation represents a paradigm shift in India’s digital entertainment ecosystem, with direct impact on:
- Gaming startups and investors
- Freelancers and developers
- Esports and fantasy sports ecosystems
What It Means for Users
- Real-money games will no longer be accessible
- Account balances can still be withdrawn (in most apps)
- Free-to-play games may still operate legally
Key Takeaways
- The Online Gaming Bill, 2025 bans all monetary-based online games
- Multiple platforms have suspended or shut down operations
- Users are advised to withdraw their balances promptly
- Only free-to-play models may survive under the new law
As the Online Gaming Bill, 2025 edges closer to becoming law, it signals a new era for India’s digital gaming landscape. While the move aims to protect users from potential risks associated with real-money gaming, it also raises questions about the future of innovation, investment, and entertainment in the sector. For now, both companies and players must adapt quickly to a rapidly changing regulatory environment.
Related News : Online Gaming Bill Passed in Parliament Amid Opposition Protests
