At the India Gaming Convention 2024, the India Development Foundation (IDF) unveiled a pioneering report titled “Modeling the Role of Skill in Online Games.” This study offers a quantitative framework that statistically distinguishes games of skill from games of chance, marking a significant advancement in the regulation of online gaming in India.
Professor Shubhashis Gangopadhyay, Research Director of India Development Foundation, said, “Distinction between games of skill and games of chance is critical to safeguarding legal online gaming and mitigating the risks stemming from the proliferation of betting and gambling platforms. Establishing an objective game testing framework to distinguish games of skill and games of chance is critical to protecting Indian gamers and enabling the growth of an innovative industry. In this context, we have developed a comprehensive objective framework to assist policymakers in distinguishing between these two categories through a statistical methodology”
The report presents a comprehensive scoring framework validated through seven statistical tests that assess the predominance of skill in any online game, regardless of real-money involvement. The methodology allows regulators to identify legitimate online gaming activities and combat illegal gambling effectively. In Kolkata the findings are poised to enhance consumer protection and regulatory consistency, aligning local businesses with the new framework. As Kolkata embraces digital gaming, establishing a clear distinction between skill-based and chance-based games could foster a safer and more innovative gaming environment, benefiting both players and the industry alike.