India, June 15 -- There's a growing trend that's hard to ignore, gamers aren't just logging on for quick matches or solo missions anymore. People invite friends into digital spaces to hang out, laugh, and spend hours together, no different from catching up in person, only with avatars and voice chat. From late-night co-op sessions to digital trivia nights, it's clear that the social role of online gaming is expanding well beyond simple competition.

What's fueling this shift away from previous social hubs is the ease of access and sheer variety that gaming platforms now provide. Today, anyone can jump into a group chat, join a custom match, or even just explore an open world together, regardless of where everyone lives. Digital marketplac...