The Rising Stars: Top 5 Micro-influencers in Gaming in 2024

In the expansive world of gaming, where titans like PewDiePie and Ninja command millions of followers, gaming is finally picking up extensively in India —led by micro-influencers. These rising micro-influencers in gaming are the unsung heroes, much like indie game developers who create masterpieces with limited resources. They excel at fostering tight-knit communities, offering a level of engagement and trust that mega-influencers can rarely replicate. As influencer marketing expert Joe Gagliese puts it, “Micro-influencers tend to feel more authentic, more relatable. Their fans listen to them like they’d listen to a friend.”

Gaming micro-influencers and creators bridge the gap between players and developers. A micro-influencer live-streaming an indie game, for instance, can spark trends that ripple through gaming communities worldwide. Just look at the success of Among Us, which gained traction thanks to smaller Twitch streamers before exploding into the mainstream. Their power lies in authenticity and hyper-specific reach. Unlike celebrity influencers, micro-influencers in gaming understand the nuances of their audience—whether it’s retro gaming enthusiasts, speedrunners, or fans of obscure RPGs.

Meet The Underdogs Shaping the Gaming Industry:

Khush Singh/Jokerr

Khush Singh, also known as “Jokerr” holds a prominent position in the Indian esports community. Khush’s journey in gaming began with a group of friends and has since grown into a flourishing career. He made his professional debut with Global Esports in 2022, where he showcased his skills in intense matches, earning a significant win in his first tournament. An accomplished professional gamer and social media influencer, he gained significant fame as part of the Global Esports team, competing in games like Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI). Known for his exceptional strategic gameplay and consistent performance, Joker was instrumental in his team’s successes in numerous tournaments, including the prestigious BGMI Masters Series. ​

After a successful stint with Global Esports, Joker transitioned to Blind Esports, where he joined a revamped roster featuring other top-tier players. This team quickly garnered attention, clinching victories at events such as the THUG Invitational: Season 5 and The Esports Club BGMI Invitational: Season 4. These accomplishments solidified his reputation as a versatile and highly skilled player.

In 2024, Khush joined Revenant XSpark, continuing to showcase his talent and dedication to the game. Khush’s ability to consistently perform at a high level has made him a respected and admired player in the esports community. Beyond competitive gaming, he is a content creator who engages his audience through streaming and gaming-related content, showcasing his personality and gameplay prowess. With a growing fanbase, he has established himself as an influential figure in esports, inspiring aspiring gamers across the region and India.

Esports Earnings indicate that the player has accumulated a total prize of $69,408.21 from 41 tournaments.  The website also lists the player’s world ranking as 4738 and country ranking as 16.

Khush Singh on Instagram: @txjoker09

Number of Followers: 97.3K

Ammar Khan/Destro

Ammar Khan, popularly known as Destro, is a prominent figure in the Indian esports community, especially in Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI). Recognized for his sharp skills and unwavering determination, Destro has consistently been a force to reckon with in competitive gaming. Destro’s journey began with Team NXT, where he showcased his potential, followed by an impactful stint with Team SynerGE, representing India in the ESL Mobile Open 2019. He gained widespread recognition with Team X Spark, leading them to victory in the PMCO Fall Split 2020, his first major trophy win. His career continued to soar with Skylightz Gaming, where he helped secure the BGIS Season 1 championship in 2022. ​

In August 2020, Team X SPARK revealed their new roster, which included Destro. Later, despite setbacks such as the PUBG Mobile ban in India, Destro remained resilient. After the game’s comeback, Destro became a member of Skylightz Gaming in December 2021. On January 16, 2022, Skylightz Gaming claimed victory in BGIS Season 1, further enhancing Destro’s impressive trophy collection.

He joined Gladiator Esports in 2023, marking a strong comeback with successive victories in BMPS Season 2 and BGIS Season 2, making him one of the most decorated players in Indian esports. ​Beyond tournaments, Destro engages with fans through his YouTube channel Destro Plays, where he shares gameplay, strategies, and insights. With an impressive record and dedication, Ammar Khan continues to inspire aspiring gamers across India.

Esports Earnings indicate Destro has accumulated a total prize of $92,200.92 from 29 tournaments. Additionally, Esports Earnings displays the player’s world ranking as 3672 and the country ranking as 5.

Ammar Khan on YouTube: @gdr_destro

Number of Followers: 79.2K

Ammar Khan on Instagram: gdr_destro13

Number of Followers: 87.2K

Nakul Sharma/NakuL

Nakul “NakuL” Sharma is a renowned professional esports athlete currently playing for Team SouL, a prominent name in the Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) community. Known for his strategic gameplay and adaptability, Nakul has been instrumental in Team SouL’s success, helping secure significant victories, including the BGMI Masters Series (BGMS) Season 3 championship in 2024. His decision-making skills shone in the finals, where his crucial heal battle led the team to a narrow but decisive victory.

Before joining Team SouL, Nakul was part of Blind Esports, where his performances earned him recognition as one of India’s top BGMI players. He transitioned to Team SouL as part of a high-profile roster shift that saw the integration of several former Blind Esports players. The new lineup, under the banner of Team iQOO SouL, has consistently delivered impressive performances, showcasing their dominance in national and international tournaments.

Nakul’s journey in esports reflects his dedication, teamwork, and competitive spirit. Beyond his individual gameplay, his collaborative efforts with teammates like Khush “Jokerr” Singh and Manpreet “Rony” Singh have made Team SouL a formidable force. Nakul’s career exemplifies the rising prominence of esports in India, inspiring many in the gaming community.

Esports Earnings states that NakuL has accumulated a total prize of $70,773.96 from 43 tournaments. Furthermore, the website shows that the player holds a world ranking of 4658 and a country ranking of 13.

Nakul Sharma on YouTube: @SouLNakuL

Number of Followers: 91K

Nakul Sharma on Instagram: @ig.nakul07

Number of Followers: 62.3K

Also Read: Kaash Plays: The Gaming Queen of India

Naman Adiani/Neyo

Naman “Neyo” Adiani is a rising star in the Indian esports scene, primarily known for his stellar performances in Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI). Naman’s journey in esports began with his participation in various tournaments, where his standout performances caught the attention of many. He joined Team SouL, where he has continued to hone his skills and contributed to the team’s success. Neyo made a name for himself with his aggressive gameplay style, which is balanced by remarkable consistency. During his tenure with Team SouL, Neyo played a critical role in the team’s strategic depth and success.

In 2024, Neyo transitioned to Carnival Gaming, a new esports organization, alongside former Team SouL members such as Sahil “Omega” Jakhar and Harsh “Goblin” Paudwal. This new roster under Carnival Gaming showcased immediate potential by winning two consecutive events: The World Of Battle (TWOB) BGMI Winter Invitational and the APL BGMI Winter Showdown 2023. These victories highlighted the team’s cohesive dynamic and Neyo’s adaptability as a player.

Neyo’s journey reflects the evolving landscape of Indian esports, where young talent is redefining the competitive scene. With the evolving scene of the esports industry, Neyo is poised to further establish his reputation as a formidable player. Making him one to watch in the upcoming BGMI seasons.

Esports Earnings indicate that the player has accumulated a total prize of $18,512.41 from 25 tournaments. Additionally, the site displays the player’s country ranking at 102.

Naman Adiani on YouTube: @neyo938

Number of Followers: 142K

Naman Adiani on Instagram: @neyooooo_11

Number of Followers: 60.1K

Arman/ Aaru

Arman “Aaru,” a rising star in the Indian esports scene, is currently a key player for Orangutan Gaming’s revamped BGMI lineup. Known for his exceptional strategic acumen and leadership skills, Aaru transitioned into Orangutan from Aaru Gaming/Team Aaru, a team he previously captained to impressive finishes despite limited organizational support. With his leadership, the team (Aaru Gaming/Team Aaru) advanced in the BGIS Finals, achieving a respectable 12th-place finish, highlighting his capability to compete at elite levels.

He initially gained recognition with OR Esports. Later represented Midwave Esports in 2023 and FS Esports in early 2024 before forming his own team. Arman/Aaru is currently the IGL/In-Game Leader of the Esports Team Orangutan. His ability to adapt and lead under pressure makes him a vital asset for Orangutan Gaming.

Esports Earnings indicate that Arman/Aaru has accumulated a total prize of $16,521.96 from 12 tournaments. Additionally, the site displays the player’s country ranking at 117. Liquipedia estimates his total winnings to be approximately $17,710.

Arman on YouTube: @Aarugamingx

Number of Followers: 54.8K

Arman on Instagram: @aaru.gamingx

Number of Followers: 36K

Also Read: Desi Gamers aka Amit Sharma takes India to the Global Stage at Free Fire World Series (FFWS) 2024

Micro-influencers in gaming might be small in number, but their impact on the gaming ecosystem is anything but. They are the driving force, reshaping the way gamers discover, interact with, and support their favourite titles.