Mahesh Babu is stepping beyond cinema and into the world of video games. The Telugu superstar has joined Mumbai-based Shortgun Games as a strategic investor, backing the studio’s plans to develop original PC and console titles for audiences in India and overseas.
The investment amount has not been disclosed. The partnership will begin with Project Takedown, Shortgun’s flagship action-adventure game, as the company looks to build original gaming properties with the scale and storytelling ambition of major international releases.
Mahesh Babu Backs an Indian Gaming Studio
Shortgun Games was founded in 2022 by Jeet Chandan and Vidhit Mehta. The Mumbai-based studio initially worked across mobile and Web3 projects before shifting its focus to PC and console development in 2024.
Mahesh Babu said India has “extraordinary creative potential” and that the time is right to create original characters and cinematic worlds that can connect with audiences around the globe. He added that the founders’ ambition to build high-end PC and console experiences matching international studio standards was a key reason behind his decision to invest.
The actor’s involvement is expected to support the studio’s technical capabilities and creative expansion. For Shortgun, the partnership also brings visibility from one of Indian cinema’s most recognisable stars as it attempts to establish itself in a competitive global gaming market.
What Is Project Takedown?
Project Takedown is described as a high-budget, narrative-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, with the studio targeting players in markets including North America, Europe and the United Kingdom.
The game is expected to run for approximately 10 to 15 hours, with a release targeted for the end of 2028. Shortgun has not yet revealed extensive gameplay details, but the project is being positioned around cinematic storytelling and action-focused gameplay.
Action director Vicky Arora, whose credits include Uri: The Surgical Strike, RRR and Tanaav, is leading the game’s action design. His team is working on motion-capture choreography, combat pre-visualisation and stunt mechanics to bring physical action techniques into the game’s digital characters.
A Bigger Push for Indian PC and Console Games
Shortgun’s plans reflect a growing effort among Indian developers to create premium games for international markets, rather than focusing exclusively on mobile gaming. The studio is also developing Roll ’em Out, a cooperative indie adventure, alongside its flagship project.
Mahesh Babu’s investment offers the company both financial backing and a high-profile creative ally. Still, the real test will be whether Project Takedown can deliver a compelling experience and stand out among established global releases.
For now, the partnership signals an ambitious move: an Indian studio, a cinematic action team and a major film star joining forces to build original games with international aspirations.
