Kochi Metro Launches Micro-Gaming Platform for Commuters

India's urban infrastructure is emerging as a new gaming frontier amidst India’s growing gaming market economy. In partnership with Kerala-based Banzan Studios, Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) launched a micro-gaming platform, “Quix,” for commuters. Passengers can scan the QR code installed at select stations to play short games on their phones, and earn redeemable points for city-based offers and rewards. 

Quix, known for games like Numzy and Yes/No with BaBlah, runs daily quizzes for passengers. The initiative is currently limited to Edappally, Maharaja’s College, and Vyttila stations. According to KMRL officials, the pilot will test passenger participation rates and assess the potential for expanding gamified services to other metro networks in India.

Gamification Expands Beyond Entertainment

India’s gaming market was valued at $4.3 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $15.2 billion by 2033. Kochi's project is part of a larger movement in India to incorporate gaming-based interaction tools into public and retail facilities, feeding integration beyond traditional gaming contexts. 

During the first two weeks, more than 5,000 commuters participated. With 250 daily rewards available, the engagement rate rose more than 20% within the initial days.  TikTalk News noted that this engagement rate is due to the media-first habit of current passengers, and emphasized the Quix initiative as a “whole new playground for advertisers, and one that could easily go global.”

Kochi metro’s initiative entails growing business models for developers and game publishers. These micro-gaming interfaces are emerging as a low-cost way for public services to boost engagement without requiring significant infrastructure modifications, according to industry analysts. Similar examples, including Japan's JR Lines' digital stamp rallies and Seoul Metro's interactive "Travel Play" kiosks, combine digital entertainment with mobility.