“Smaaash is coming back.”
That was Nitish Mittersain, co-founder and joint managing director of Nazara Technologies Ltd, soon after India’s lone listed gaming company completed the acquisition of Smaaash, one of India’s most recognisable offline gaming and entertainment brands, for ₹126 crore.
Mittersain further posted on LinkedIn: “Over the years, Smaaash created a unique space at the intersection of sport, technology, and social play. Many of us have personal memories of playing there—whether bowling with friends, batting against virtual bowlers, or experiencing early VR.
“This isn’t just a nod to the past. It’s a step toward building the future of experiential gaming in India via an iconic brand.”
Per Mittersain, Nazaraa plans to:
• Reimagine the Smaaash experience for today’s audience
• Integrate digital IPs and technologies from across the Nazara network
• Expand into new formats and geographies
• Collaborate with partners in content, retail, gaming, and live events
Mittersain added: “We’re inviting partners—and fresh ideas from those who believe in the future of tech-powered play—to help us shape the next chapter of experiential gaming.
“Smaaash was a bold idea once. It’s time to build on that idea, with sharper execution and a clearer lens on what the future demands.”
For the record, Nazara completed the acquisition of Smaaash Entertainment Pvt Ltd for ₹126 crore, turning it into a wholly owned subsidiary, on June 6.
The acquisition gives Nazara full ownership of Smaaash and access to its location-based gaming and entertainment assets.
Per CNB TV18, Smaaash reported a turnover of ₹112.34 crore in FY24. The transaction, according to Nazara, does not fall under related party transactions and has been executed at arm’s length.
Founded in 2012 by Shripal Morakhia, Smaaash became one of India’s leading immersive entertainment chains, combining virtual reality, bowling, go-karting, cricket simulators, and F&B under one roof. Backed by marquee investors including Sachin Tendulkar, Blume Ventures, Matrix Partners India, and Kalaari Capital, Smaaash had a strong urban presence with over 11 centers across India.
