Mobile Premier League (MPL), one of India’s leading gaming unicorns, has suspended all real-money gaming operations in India, following swift legislative changes. The move comes on the heels of Parliament passing the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, which bans online games involving monetary stakes, including fantasy sports, poker, and rummy
Compliance with Legal Mandate
In an official statement, MPL confirmed the suspension and reassured users that while new deposits are no longer allowed, existing balances can be withdrawn seamlessly. The company emphasized that this was done to comply immediately with the new legal framework.
Pivot to Free-to-Play Models & Global Markets
Despite the shutdown of its real-money vertical, MPL affirmed its commitment to continue offering free-to-play, non-money-based games in India, and to explore opportunities in overseas markets, which contribute nearly 50% of its revenue.
Industry-Wide Impact
MPL’s actions reflect a broader trend in the Indian gaming industry. Other major players—including Dream11, Zupee, Games24x7’s My11Circle, Gameskraft’s RummyCulture, and Probo—have also suspended their real-money operations post the bill’s passage.
Regulatory Intent & Industry Response
The legislation aims to promote esports and social games while prohibiting real-money formats believed to pose psychological and financial risks, particularly to youths. A National Online Gaming Commission is also proposed to regulate the industry.
Meanwhile, gaming associations continue to press the government to reconsider blanket bans, warning of potential job losses, revenue collapses, and a drift toward unregulated markets
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