Rickshaw Express India: The Complete Guide to India's Favorite Rickshaw Simulation Game

1. What is Rickshaw Express India?

Rickshaw Express India is more than just a mobile game—it’s a cultural experience that lets players step into the shoes of India’s iconic rickshaw drivers, navigating the chaotic yet vibrant streets of the country’s most beloved cities. Developed by Indian Digital Studios Pvt. Ltd. and launched in February 2022, this simulation game has quickly become a household name among Indian gamers, thanks to its realistic gameplay and deep connection to local life.

For anyone who has ever hailed a rickshaw in India, Rickshaw Express India feels instantly familiar. It captures the little details that make rickshaw rides unique: the sound of the bell cutting through traffic noise, the friendly banter with drivers, the last-minute route changes to avoid jams, and the satisfaction of reaching a destination on time despite all odds.

Figure 1: A snapshot of Rickshaw Express India’s gameplay, featuring a rickshaw navigating the busy streets of Mumbai’s Colaba district

The core premise of Rickshaw Express India is simple but engaging: you start as a new driver with a basic, well-worn rickshaw. Your goal is to earn money by picking up passengers, negotiating fares (yes, bargaining is part of the fun!), and delivering people safely to their destinations. As you progress, you can upgrade your vehicle—from better brakes to more comfortable seats—or even buy new rickshaw models, from classic cycle rickshaws to modern electric ones.

What sets Rickshaw Express India apart from other simulation games is its commitment to authenticity. The developers didn’t just create generic “city levels”—they recreated real Indian cities with their unique quirks. For example, Kolkata’s levels feature narrow lanes and hand-pulled rickshaws, while Delhi’s stages include CNG autos and foggy winter conditions. Every city has recognizable landmarks, from Chennai’s Marina Beach to Jaipur’s Hawa Mahal, making the game feel like a virtual tour of India.

1.1 Core Gameplay Features of Rickshaw Express India

Rickshaw Express India blends multiple gameplay elements to keep players engaged, whether they have 5 minutes or 2 hours to play. Here are the key features that make the game stand out:

• Realistic Driving Physics: The game’s physics engine mimics how rickshaws handle in real life—heavy loads slow you down, potholes jolt the vehicle, and wet roads reduce traction. This makes driving feel challenging but rewarding.
• Dynamic Passenger AI: Passengers in Rickshaw Express India aren’t just “points”—they have distinct personalities. Some are in a rush and will pay more for a fast ride; others want a smooth journey and tip well for careful driving; a few might even try to haggle for a lower fare (you can choose to negotiate or stand your ground!).
• Day-Night & Weather Cycles: The game features a realistic day-night cycle, so you’ll drive through morning rush hours, sunny afternoons, and quiet evenings. Weather also plays a role—monsoon rains make roads slippery, while winter fog reduces visibility, adding new challenges to each ride.
• Career Mode: For players who want a story, Rickshaw Express India offers a career mode following Arjun, a young migrant from Bihar who moves to Delhi to become a rickshaw driver. The story explores his struggles and successes, from saving up for his sister’s education to dealing with unexpected expenses like vehicle repairs.
• Offline Play: Recognizing that many Indian gamers have limited data access, Rickshaw Express India can be played offline. You don’t need an internet connection to pick up passengers or upgrade your rickshaw—perfect for long commutes or trips to areas with weak network coverage.

Figure 2: The city selection menu in Rickshaw Express India, featuring 15+ playable Indian cities, from Delhi to Kochi

Another highlight of Rickshaw Express India is its accessibility. The controls are simple: tap the left side of the screen to brake, tap the right to accelerate, and swipe to change lanes. Even if you’ve never played a driving game before, you’ll be able to pick up the basics in minutes. But mastering the game—learning shortcuts, handling different weather conditions, and maximizing tips—takes time, keeping players coming back for more.

1.2 The Story Behind Rickshaw Express India

In interviews, the game’s creative director, Anjali Sharma, has shared that Rickshaw Express India was inspired by her childhood memories of traveling with her grandfather in Kolkata’s cycle rickshaws. “Those rides weren’t just about getting from point A to B,” she told Indian Gaming Magazine in 2023. “They were about hearing stories from the driver, seeing the city from a different perspective, and understanding the hard work that goes into this job. We wanted to capture that spirit in the game.”

To ensure authenticity, the development team spent months researching rickshaw culture across India. They interviewed over 200 drivers in 10 cities, noting everything from how they navigate traffic to what they talk about with passengers. They also studied local landmarks, street food stalls, and even traffic rules (or lack thereof!) in each city to make the game as realistic as possible.

This attention to detail paid off. Players often praise Rickshaw Express India for small, relatable touches—like a passenger asking to stop for a quick samosa, or a street vendor shouting “chai garam!” as you drive past. These moments make the game feel less like a “simulation” and more like a window into real Indian life.

2. Rickshaw Express India: Download Stats & Market Performance

Since its launch, Rickshaw Express India has achieved remarkable success in the Indian gaming market. It’s not just popular—it’s a phenomenon, with millions of players downloading and playing the game regularly. Let’s break down the numbers to understand just how big this game has become.

2.1 Platform Distribution: Android vs. iOS

Like most mobile games in India, Rickshaw Express India is most popular on Android devices. This aligns with India’s mobile market trends—Android phones are more affordable and widely used than iOS devices, especially in tier-2 and tier-3 cities and rural areas.

The game’s small file size (under 85MB) has also helped its reach. Many Indian gamers have limited storage space on their phones, so a lightweight game like Rickshaw Express India is more likely to be downloaded and kept. It also loads quickly, even on slower internet connections—a crucial factor for players in areas with patchy data coverage.

Figure 2: Breakdown of Rickshaw Express India’s downloads by platform (as of July 2024). Android dominates with 87% of downloads, while iOS accounts for 13%.

Despite Android’s dominance, Rickshaw Express India has also performed well on iOS. It consistently ranks in the top 50 “Simulation Games” on the Apple App Store in India, with a dedicated fan base among iPhone users. The developers have optimized the game for both platforms, ensuring smooth gameplay regardless of the device.

2.2 Regional Popularity in India

Rickshaw Express India is loved across India, but some regions have embraced the game more than others. This popularity often ties to how common rickshaws are in daily life—cities where rickshaws are a primary mode of transport tend to have more engaged players.

The table below shows the top 6 regions by download percentage, along with the most popular city in each area and average daily play time (a key metric for engagement):

What’s interesting is that Rickshaw Express India is popular not just in big cities but also in smaller towns and rural areas. In places like Allahabad (Uttar Pradesh) and Rajshahi (Bihar), where rickshaws are a lifeline for transportation, the game has a dedicated following. Players often share screenshots of their hometowns’ levels on social media, celebrating the fact that their cities are represented in a major game.

2.3 Growth Trajectory: How Rickshaw Express India Became a Hit

Rickshaw Express India didn’t become a success overnight—it grew steadily, driven by positive word-of-mouth and strategic updates. Let’s look at the key milestones in its journey:

• February 2022 (Launch): The game launches with 5 cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore) and basic gameplay. It hits 1 million downloads in its first month, mostly through organic growth.
• May 2022 (First Update): Adds 3 new cities (Lucknow, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad) and a “Festival Mode” for Holi. Downloads jump by 30%, as players enjoy the new content.
• September 2022 (Regional Languages): Introduces 8 regional languages (Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, Gujarati, Urdu, Kannada, Malayalam). This update expands the game’s reach to non-English speaking players, pushing downloads to 10 million.
• February 2023 (1-Year Anniversary): Launches a multiplayer mode, allowing players to race against friends. The update also adds electric rickshaws as a new vehicle type. Downloads cross 15 million.
• July 2023 (Heritage Cities): Adds 4 heritage cities (Varanasi, Jaipur, Agra, Udaipur) with special “tourist passenger” missions. The update is widely praised for showcasing India’s cultural heritage, and downloads reach 20 million.
• January 2024 (Winter Update): Introduces winter weather effects (fog, cold) and a new “Rickshaw Driver Welfare” in-game event (tied to real-world charity for rickshaw drivers). Downloads hit 23 million.
• July 2024 (Current): Crosses 25 million downloads, with plans to add 3 more cities (Guwahati, Bhubaneswar, Amritsar) by the end of the year.

Figure 3: A chart showing Rickshaw Express India’s download growth from its launch in February 2022 to July 2024

Another key factor in Rickshaw Express India’s success is its retention rate. According to data from Indian Gaming Analytics, 65% of players who download the game are still active after 30 days—well above the industry average of 35-40% for mobile simulation games. This high retention is due to the game’s regular updates, daily challenges, and the emotional connection players feel to the gameplay.

3. Rickshaw Express India: Player Reviews & Ratings

Rickshaw Express India has earned rave reviews from players across India, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 on both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. What’s even more impressive is the consistency of positive feedback—82% of reviews are 5-star, while only 3% are 1-star. Let’s dive into what players love (and occasionally criticize) about the game.

3.1 What Players Love About Rickshaw Express India

After analyzing thousands of reviews, we’ve identified the top reasons players keep coming back to Rickshaw Express India:

• Authenticity: This is the most common praise. Players love that the game doesn’t just “pretend” to be Indian—it actually feels Indian. From the street food stalls in the background to the way passengers speak (complete with local slang), every detail resonates. One reviewer from Kolkata wrote: “The cycle rickshaws in the Kolkata level look exactly like the ones near my home. Even the sound of the bell is the same!”
• Accessibility: Players of all ages and skill levels enjoy Rickshaw Express India. Parents often mention that their kids (as young as 8) can play, while older gamers appreciate that it’s not too fast-paced. “I’m 55 and don’t play many games, but this one is easy to learn and fun. I play it with my grandson on weekends,” said a reviewer from Delhi.
• Regular Updates: Players love that the developers keep adding new content. Whether it’s a new city, a festival event, or a vehicle upgrade, the updates keep the game fresh. “I’ve been playing for over a year, and I still get excited when a new update drops,” wrote a player from Hyderabad.
• Offline Play: This is a big plus for players in areas with limited internet. “I live in a small village in Bihar, and data is expensive. Being able to play Rickshaw Express India offline is a game-changer,” said one reviewer.
• Emotional Connection: Many players feel a personal bond with the game, especially those who have family members who drive rickshaws. “My father was a rickshaw driver for 20 years. Playing this game helps me understand the hard work he put in every day,” shared a reviewer from Mumbai.

3.2 Featured Player Reviews

3.3 Criticisms & Developer Responses

While most feedback for Rickshaw Express India is positive, some players have raised concerns. The good news? The developers have been quick to address these issues in updates:

• Too Many Ads (Early Reviews): When the game first launched, some players complained about frequent ads. In response, the developers added a low-cost ad-free version (₹49) and reduced ad frequency in the free version. “We heard players loud and clear—ads should enhance, not interrupt, the gameplay,” the team said in a 2022 blog post.
• Limited Vehicle Customization: Early on, players could only upgrade basic parts like brakes and engines. In the September 2022 update, the developers added cosmetic customization—players can now paint their rickshaws, add stickers, and even put up small flags (like the Indian flag or state flags). “We wanted players to make their rickshaws feel unique, just like real drivers do,” the team explained.
• Missing Cities: Players from states like Assam and Odisha asked for their cities to be added. The developers have promised to include Guwahati (Assam) and Bhubaneswar (Odisha) in the next update, along with Amritsar (Punjab). They also created a “City Request” form on their website, letting players vote for which cities to add next.
• Battery Drain: A few iOS users reported that the game drained their battery quickly. The developers optimized the game’s graphics in the January 2024 update, reducing battery usage by 40% on iPhone devices.

This responsiveness has helped Rickshaw Express India maintain its high ratings. Players appreciate that the developers listen to their feedback—something that’s not always common in the mobile gaming industry. As one reviewer put it: “It’s nice to feel like the people making the game actually care about what we want.”

4. Rickshaw Express India: Localization & Regional Adaptations

One of Rickshaw Express India’s greatest strengths is its deep localization—not just in language, but in every aspect of the game. The developers didn’t just “translate” the game into regional languages; they adapted it to reflect India’s diverse cultures, traditions, and ways of life. This is why the game resonates with players from Kashmir to Kanyakumari.

Localization is more than just words—it’s about making players feel seen. For example, a player in Tamil Nadu shouldn’t have to play a game that references “punjabi food” or “Delhi winters” exclusively. Rickshaw Express India avoids this by tailoring each city’s content to its local culture, making every player feel like the game was made for them.

4.1 Language Support: More Than Just Hindi & English

India is a multilingual country, and Rickshaw Express India embraces this diversity. The game currently supports 10 languages, with plans to add more:

• English
• Hindi
• Bengali
• Tamil
• Telugu
• Marathi
• Gujarati
• Urdu
• Kannada
• Malayalam

What’s impressive is that the localization isn’t just for menus—it’s for every part of the game. Passengers speak in local dialects, street signs are in regional languages, and even the game’s tutorials are tailored to each language. For example, in the Tamil version, a passenger might say “Marina Beach-ku povom!” (Let’s go to Marina Beach!), while in the Bengali version, someone might ask for “Victoria Memorial-er dike jao” (Take me towards Victoria Memorial).

Figure 4: The language selection menu in Rickshaw Express India, featuring 10 Indian languages

The developers worked with native speakers to ensure the translations are accurate and natural. They avoided “literal” translations that sound awkward—instead, they used local slang and expressions. For example, in the Gujarati version, the word for “tip” is “baksheesh,” which is commonly used in Gujarat, rather than a direct translation of “tip.”

4.2 Regional Content: Cities, Food, & Festivals

Rickshaw Express India’s localization goes beyond language—it’s about celebrating India’s regional diversity through content. Here’s how the game adapts to different parts of the country:

• City-Specific Landmarks: Every playable city in Rickshaw Express India features real landmarks. For example:
  • Delhi: Red Fort, India Gate, Connaught Place
  • Mumbai: Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Colaba Causeway
  • Kolkata: Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Dakshineswar Kali Temple
  • Chennai: Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Mahabalipuram
  • Jaipur: Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, City Palace
• Local Food References: Passengers often ask to be dropped off at famous local eateries, and the game includes references to regional dishes. In Lucknow, a passenger might say “I need to get to Tunday Kababi for lunch,” while in Hyderabad, someone might request “Take me to Paradise Biryani.” These little touches make the game feel deeply connected to local life.
• Festival Adaptations: Rickshaw Express India’s “Festival Mode” changes based on the region. For example:
  • West Bengal: Durga Puja-themed levels with decorated pandals and traditional music
  • Tamil Nadu: Pongal levels where passengers carry sugarcane and request rides to temples
  • Gujarat: Navratri levels with garba music and passengers dressed in chaniya cholis
  • Punjab: Baisakhi levels with folk music and trips to gurdwaras
• Weather & Climate: The game’s weather system reflects regional climates. In Kerala, you’ll experience more monsoon rains, while in Rajasthan, you’ll face hot, dry days. In the Himalayan regions (like parts of Uttarakhand, which will be added in future updates), you’ll even see snow!

4.3 Regional Versions: Subtle Differences That Matter

While the core gameplay of Rickshaw Express India is the same across the country, there are subtle differences in regional versions to reflect local realities. These differences are so natural that many players don’t even notice them—but they make the game feel more authentic:

To create these regional versions, the developers worked with local consultants—including real rickshaw drivers, cultural experts, and even tourism boards. This ensures that the game’s regional content is accurate and respectful, not just a collection of stereotypes.

For example, when creating the Kolkata level, the team spent a week riding cycle rickshaws around the city, taking photos of streets, and talking to drivers about their daily routes. They even recorded the sound of Kolkata’s trams to include in the background of the game. The result? A level that feels like a true representation of the city, not just a generic “east Indian city.”

5. Rickshaw Express India: Expert Tips from Top Players

While Rickshaw Express India is easy to learn, mastering it takes skill. We spoke to some of the game’s top players—those who rank in the top 1% globally—to get their best tips for earning more money, upgrading faster, and becoming a pro rickshaw driver.

These tips aren’t just for competitive players—they’ll help anyone get more enjoyment out of Rickshaw Express India, whether you’re playing for 10 minutes a day or hours at a time.

5.1 Earning More Money: The Ultimate Guide

Money is the lifeblood of Rickshaw Express India—it lets you upgrade your rickshaw, buy new vehicles, and unlock new cities. Here’s how top players maximize their earnings:

• Play During Rush Hour: “Morning (7-10 AM) and evening (5-8 PM) rush hours in the game offer 25% higher fares,” says Vijay, a top player from Chennai. “Passengers are in a hurry to get to work or home, so they’ll pay more for a fast ride. I always plan my playtime around these hours—it’s the easiest way to earn big.”
• Master the Art of Bargaining: Bargaining is part of Rickshaw Express India’s gameplay, and top players know how to use it to their advantage. “If a passenger tries to lowball you, don’t agree immediately,” advises Priya, a player from Delhi. “Counter with a slightly lower price than your original fare—most passengers will accept it, and you’ll still make more than if you’d agreed to their first offer.”
• Focus on Tourist Passengers: In heritage cities like Varanasi and Jaipur, “tourist passengers” pay 50% more than regular passengers. “Tourists want to go to landmarks like the Taj Mahal or Hawa Mahal, and they don’t mind paying extra for a knowledgeable driver,” says Raj, a top player from Agra. “I always prioritize these passengers—they’re the most profitable.”
• Avoid Traffic Tickets: Getting pulled over by police for running red lights or overspeeding costs you money (fines range from ₹100 to ₹500). “Learn the traffic patterns in each city,” says Anjali, a player from Mumbai. “In Mumbai, the police often set up checkpoints near Marine Drive—avoid that area during rush hour if you’re in a hurry.”
• Complete Daily Challenges: Rickshaw Express India offers daily challenges (e.g., “Drop 10 passengers in 1 hour” or “Earn ₹5,000 in a day”) that reward you with bonus money and in-game items. “I never skip daily challenges—they’re an easy way to earn extra cash,” says Ravi, a player from Bangalore. “Some challenges even give you free upgrades, which saves you money in the long run.”

Figure 5: A scene from Rickshaw Express India where a passenger is bargaining with the driver—mastering this skill can boost your earnings

5.2 Upgrading Your Rickshaw: What to Prioritize

With so many upgrade options in Rickshaw Express India, it’s easy to waste money on things you don’t need. Top players recommend focusing on these upgrades first:

1. Brakes: “Brakes are the most important upgrade, especially in busy cities like Kolkata,” says Sourav, a top player. “Good brakes let you stop quickly to avoid accidents—each accident costs you money (for repairs) and makes passengers unhappy (lower tips). I upgrade my brakes first every time I get a new rickshaw.”
2. Suspension: After brakes, suspension is key. “India’s roads aren’t always smooth—potholes are everywhere,” explains Meera, a player from Hyderabad. “A good suspension makes rides smoother, which means happier passengers and better tips. It also reduces wear and tear on your rickshaw, so you’ll spend less on repairs.”
3. Engine Efficiency: A more efficient engine uses less fuel, which saves you money over time. “Fuel costs add up—especially if you’re driving long distances,” says Amit, a player from Ahmedabad. “I upgrade my engine after suspension—it’s a long-term investment that pays off.”
4. Comfort Features: Once you have brakes, suspension, and engine sorted, add comfort upgrades like better seats or a roof. “These don’t affect your driving, but they make passengers happier,” says Sanjana, a player from Kolkata. “A passenger with a comfortable ride might tip you 30% more than someone who’s squished in a old rickshaw.”
5. Cosmetic Upgrades: Save cosmetic upgrades (paint, stickers) for last. “They’re fun, but they don’t help you earn more money,” advises Vijay. “Only buy them if you have extra cash to spare.”

5.3 Navigating Traffic: Pro Tricks for Avoiding Jams

Traffic is the biggest challenge in Rickshaw Express India—even the best drivers struggle with it. Here’s how top players navigate India’s chaotic streets:

• Learn the Shortcuts: Every city in Rickshaw Express India has hidden shortcuts that can save you time. “In Delhi, I use the narrow lanes near Chandni Chowk to avoid the main road jams,” says Rajesh, a player from Delhi. “In Bangalore, the back roads near MG Road are faster during rush hour. Explore each city to find these shortcuts—they’re game-changers.”
• Follow the Cows (Yes, Really!): This might sound strange, but top players swear by it. “In India, cows often walk on the roads, and drivers know to avoid them,” explains Priya. “In Rickshaw Express India, cows always take the safest, least crowded routes. If you see a cow in the game, follow it—it will lead you to a clear path.”
• Use Your Bell Wisely: The game’s bell isn’t just for show—it can help you navigate traffic. “A quick tap on the bell tells other vehicles to move out of your way,” says Anjali. “But don’t ring it nonstop—passengers hate excessive noise, and it might even attract the police’s attention.”
• Avoid Peak Times for Busy Areas: Some areas are always busy at certain times. “In Mumbai, Marine Drive is packed with tourists in the evening,” says Ravi. “If you have a passenger going there after 6 PM, suggest a different route—you’ll get there faster, and the passenger will appreciate it.”
• Watch for Street Vendors: Street vendors often set up stalls on the side of the road, blocking traffic. “In Kolkata, the area near New Market is full of vendors in the afternoon,” says Sourav. “I avoid that area between 12-3 PM—you’ll get stuck for 10 minutes minimum.”

5.4 Multiplayer Mode: How to Win Races

Rickshaw Express India’s multiplayer mode lets you race against friends or other players online. Here’s how top racers stay ahead:

• Choose the Right Rickshaw: For races, speed is key. “I use the electric rickshaw—it’s faster than cycle rickshaws and more maneuverable than CNG autos,” says Raj, a top multiplayer player. “Avoid heavy rickshaws with lots of comfort upgrades—they’re slow and hard to handle in races.”
• Memorize the Race Routes: There are 15 race routes in Rickshaw Express India, and they rotate weekly. “I practice each route until I know every turn by heart,” says Vijay. “This lets me take corners faster and avoid mistakes—even the smallest error can cost you the race.”
• Use Power-Ups Strategically: Races have power-ups like speed boosts and “traffic clear” (which temporarily moves other vehicles out of your way). “Save speed boosts for straight roads—they’re wasted on tight corners,” advises Priya. “Use traffic clear when you’re stuck behind a slow truck or bus.”
• Don’t Be Afraid to Block: In multiplayer races, blocking other players is allowed (and even encouraged!). “If someone is behind you, position your rickshaw to block their path,” says Anjali. “Just be careful not to crash—blocking works only if you stay in control.”

6. Rickshaw Express India: Local Events & Tournaments

Rickshaw Express India isn’t just a game played alone—it’s a community experience. The developers and player groups organize regular events and tournaments across India, bringing gamers together to celebrate their love for the game. These events range from casual meetups to competitive tournaments with cash prizes.

For many players, these events are a chance to connect with other fans of Rickshaw Express India—and even meet the developers. They’re also a way to celebrate Indian culture, as many events tie into festivals or local traditions.

6.1 National Tournaments: Compete for Prizes

The biggest Rickshaw Express India event is the annual National Championship, held in Delhi every December. Here’s what you need to know:

• How It Works: The tournament is open to all players. It starts with regional qualifiers in 10 cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Patna, Jaipur) in November. The top 10 players from each region qualify for the national finals in Delhi.
• What You Win: The national champion gets a cash prize of ₹1 lakh, a custom “Pro Rickshaw” skin for the game, and a chance to visit the Indian Digital Studios office to test upcoming updates. Second and third place get ₹50,000 and ₹25,000 respectively, plus in-game rewards.
• 2023 Championship Highlights: The 2023 National Championship was won by Rajesh Kumar, a 38-year-old auto-rickshaw driver from Patna. He beat 99 other players in the finals, which included a 30-minute race through a virtual Mumbai. “I never thought a real auto driver like me would win a gaming tournament,” Rajesh said after his win. “It feels like a dream come true.”

Figure 6: The winners of the 2023 Rickshaw Express India National Championship (left to right: third place, second place, winner Rajesh Kumar)

6.2 Festival Events: Celebrate with the Game

Rickshaw Express India organizes special in-game and real-world events for major Indian festivals. These events are fan favorites, as they let players celebrate their traditions while playing their favorite game:

• Diwali Dhamaka: Every October/November, the game adds a Diwali-themed update with decorated rickshaws (covered in fairy lights), firework displays, and special “puja passenger” missions (passengers need rides to temples or family homes). Real-world events include Diwali meetups in major cities, where players gather to play the game, eat sweets, and exchange Diwali gifts.
• Holi Hustle: For Holi, the game adds colored powder effects (your rickshaw gets covered in Holi colors as you drive) and “sweet delivery” missions (delivering gujiyas to passengers). In 2023, the developers organized a Holi event in Jaipur, where players painted a real rickshaw with Holi colors and donated it to a local driver.
• Ganesh Chaturthi Special: In Mumbai, the game’s Ganesh Chaturthi event lets players participate in virtual Ganesh processions, carrying idols to the beach. Real-world events include a “Rickshaw Rally” in Mumbai, where players ride decorated rickshaws (both real and virtual) to celebrate the festival.
• Pongal Festival: For Pongal, the game adds special bullock cart races (alongside rickshaws) and “harvest passenger” missions (passengers carry rice and sugarcane). In Chennai, the developers host a Pongal feast for players, with traditional dishes like ven pongal and payasam.

6.3 Developer Meetups: Talk to the Team Behind the Game

The Rickshaw Express India development team regularly hosts meetups in major cities, giving players a chance to ask questions, share feedback, and even test upcoming updates. These meetups are informal and fun—perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about how the game is made.

Recent meetups include:

• Bangalore Meetup (March 2024): Held at a gaming cafe in Koramangala, the meetup was attended by over 200 players. The team demoed the upcoming “Electric Rickshaw Upgrade” and asked players for feedback on new city ideas. They also gave away free Rickshaw Express India merchandise, like t-shirts and phone cases.
• Kolkata Meetup (June 2024): The team visited Kolkata to celebrate the game’s Kolkata level, which is one of the most popular. They met with local rickshaw drivers, who shared stories that will be included in future updates. Players also got to try a prototype of the upcoming “Tram Ride” mini-game.
• Delhi Meetup (August 2024): Planned to coincide with India’s Independence Day, the meetup will feature a special “Tiranga Rickshaw” skin (with the Indian flag colors) and a quiz about Indian history. The team will also announce the dates for the 2024 National Championship.

These meetups are a great way for the developers to stay connected to their audience. “We don’t just make a game for players—we make it with players,” said Anjali Sharma, the game’s creative director, at a recent meetup. “These events help us understand what our community wants, and that makes Rickshaw Express India a better game.”