Winzo Expands to US After India’s Gaming Ban
Winzo, a prominent online gaming platform based in Gurugram, has made headlines by expanding its services to the United States. This move comes shortly after India implemented a new online gaming law that banned real-money gaming. With this expansion, Winzo is not just entering a new market but also shifting its focus towards short-form video content through the launch of ZO TV.
Saumya Singh Rathore, co-founder of Winzo, expressed enthusiasm about the new venture, stating that they aim to offer localized drama series to their 250 million users. This ambitious expansion positions Winzo in three of the world's top four gaming markets, including the US, which is known for its massive gaming revenue potential. Winzo had previously entered the Brazilian market two years ago.
In addition to expanding its reach, Winzo is also looking to support Indian game developers by introducing a plug-and-launch distribution model in the US market. This initiative could open doors for Indian creators to showcase their work internationally, thereby enhancing the global presence of Indian gaming.
Founded in 2018, Winzo reported an impressive operating revenue of Rs 1,055 crore for the fiscal year ending March 2024. The recent changes in its operational strategy are a direct response to the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025, which prohibits all forms of online money games in India, affecting both local and offshore companies.
In light of this law, Winzo has responsibly ceased its real-money gaming offerings as of August 22, 2025, ensuring that all user balances will be refunded without loss. They emphasized their commitment to serving the Indian audience while adapting to the evolving regulatory landscape.
Winzo is not alone in this transformation; several other companies in India's booming gaming sector are also pivoting their business models. Dream11, a leading fantasy sports app, has announced plans to wind down its real-money operations, while other platforms like Zupee and Probo are shifting to free-to-play models. This collective response highlights the significant impact of the new gaming regulations on the industry.
As Winzo ventures into the US market and explores innovative content formats, it remains dedicated to its Indian user base, signaling a new chapter in its growth trajectory amidst changing regulatory challenges.
