Actor Mahesh Babu has entered India’s video game development industry by acquiring a minority stake in Mumbai-based gaming studio Shortgun Games. The investment, for an undisclosed amount, will support the company’s ambition to develop high-end PC and console games for global audiences.
Founded in 2022 by Jeet Chandan and Vidhit Mehta, Shortgun Games is focused on creating original gaming intellectual properties rather than mobile-first titles. Mahesh Babu’s involvement will extend beyond financial backing, with the actor expected to collaborate with the studio on developing original gaming concepts and intellectual properties.
Project Takedown: A Game Set in Near-Future Mumbai
The studio’s flagship project, Project Takedown, is a story-driven action-adventure game set in a near-future version of Mumbai. It is being developed for PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
The game is designed for international markets, including North America, Europe, the UK and Japan. Reports indicate that the title could offer 10–15 hours of gameplay, with a release targeted by the end of 2028.
Shortgun Games has also brought action director Vicky Arora on board to lead combat design, motion-capture choreography and action sequences. His previous film credits include Uri: The Surgical Strike and RRR.
From Web3 and Mobile to Console Gaming
Shortgun Games was initially involved in Web3 and mobile game development before shifting its focus to PC and console titles in 2024. The company aims to build original franchises with international appeal.
Its earlier funding includes a $1 million seed round raised in August 2025 from angel investors and a family office. The funding supported the development of its initial game prototype and team expansion.
Apart from Project Takedown, the studio is also working on Roll ’em Out, an independent cooperative adventure game.
Mahesh Babu’s Entry into Gaming
Mahesh Babu said India’s creative talent has the potential to develop original characters and cinematic gaming worlds for international audiences. He cited the founders’ ambition to create high-end gaming experiences comparable to those produced by global studios as a key reason for backing the company.
For Shortgun Games, the investment brings financial support, industry visibility and an association with a major name from Indian cinema. The studio’s larger challenge will be to establish itself in the competitive global PC and console gaming market.
The development also reflects growing interest among Indian investors and entertainment personalities in the country’s gaming sector, particularly in original intellectual properties designed for audiences beyond India.
