Krafton India Takes Over Publishing for Real Cricket

Krafton India has officially taken over publishing responsibilities for Real Cricket, with the update reflecting this transition rolling out this week. The shift marks a major step for one of India’s most successful homegrown gaming franchises and follows Krafton’s acquisition of a majority stake in Pune-based Nautilus Mobile for ₹118 crore (approximately $14 million USD) in March 2025.

The move is paired with new gameplay systems, expanded IPL team licenses, and a strengthened roadmap aimed at long-term player engagement.

This transition aligns with Krafton’s wider efforts in India’s gaming ecosystem, including investments in local studios, the Krafton India Gaming Incubator (KIGI), esports programs, and initiatives that support emerging talent. 

While Nautilus continues core development, Krafton will lead publishing, live operations, and community-focused initiatives. The company said it will “work closely” with Nautilus Mobile to “take Real Cricket into its next phase of growth, strengthening live operations and deepening community engagement.”

Real Cricket Update Adds RC Pass, Rewards T20 Series, and official IPL teams

The update is led by two new systems, with RC Pass introducing a 30-day progression track offering challenges and exclusive unlocks, and Real Rewards T20 Series adding a leaderboard mode that “enables players to convert in-game success into real-world rewards through leaderboard competition.” 

The update also brings new Hindi commentary, improved visuals, updated animations, and a streamlined interface designed to better capture a stadium-like atmosphere on mobile. 

Official IPL team licenses now include Lucknow Super Giants, Rajasthan Royals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, and Punjab Kings, with more teams expected later.

Real Cricket’s upcoming roadmap expands on these additions with new community features, updated tournaments, and broader competitive formats aligned with cricket’s major seasons. Krafton stated that the integration strengthens its Make in India vision by supporting ambitious homegrown IPs and helping them scale globally.

Anuj Sahani, head of the Krafton India Incubator Program (KIGI) and associate director of India Publishing at the Krafton India Gaming Incubator, said Real Cricket has “become a cultural touchpoint for millions in India” and that its next chapter represents “a milestone for the future of game development in the country.” He added that Krafton aims to champion Indian studios that are building global-quality franchises as part of their long-term commitment to a vibrant domestic gaming ecosystem.

Speculation around Krafton’s broader cricket investments surfaced when CNBC TV18 reported that the company was in early but serious discussions to acquire a minority stake in the Rajasthan Royals. However, Krafton India has denied the report, calling it “completely and utterly speculative.”

Krafton’s Q3 2025 earnings also referenced an unannounced cricket game currently in development, and Real Cricket’s official website has now transitioned to “realcricket.krafton.com.”

Real Cricket enters this new phase with a unified strategy under Krafton, positioning the franchise for deeper engagement and wider reach in the months ahead.