Global Gaming in 2025: Console Income Growth Beats PC, Mobile Maintains Market Lead
The gaming industry has long seen console platforms as slower-growing compared to the more flexible and customizable world of PC gaming. While consoles have remained popular for their plug-and-play convenience, many gamers have favored the freedom offered by PC gaming. However, a major shift is expected in 2025, as Newzoo's latest Global Games Market Report predicts that console revenue will outpace PC revenue growth for the first time, becoming the primary driver of the gaming industry's expansion.
Console Revenue Set to Surpass PC for the First Time
In 2025, console gaming revenue is forecasted to grow by 5.5%, surpassing the 2.5% growth projected for PC gaming. This surge will push total console revenue to $45.9 billion, overtaking the PC market's $39.9 billion. While mobile gaming remains the dominant leader in revenue, expected to reach $103 billion due to its accessibility, the console market will represent a major force in the global gaming industry's projected 3.4% growth, bringing total market value to $188.8 billion in 2025.
What’s Driving the Console Boom?
The rapid growth in the console market is largely driven by the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, which is set to launch in 2025, alongside a range of major game releases. Titles like Monster Hunter: Wilderness, Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, and Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 are expected to contribute significantly to revenue growth. Additionally, continued strong sales of the PlayStation 5 are helping sustain the expanding console market.
One of the most exciting drivers for consoles in 2025 is the launch of GTA 6, which will initially be released exclusively on consoles. This exclusive strategy is expected to further boost hardware sales and generate significant revenue from both the game itself and the accompanying hardware.
What Does the Future Hold for Consoles?
With innovative new hardware on the horizon and blockbuster game releases driving momentum, the console gaming market looks poised for a sustained period of growth. The combination of exclusive content, high-quality titles, and new gaming technologies suggests that consoles will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the gaming landscape in the years to come.
Do you think consoles will maintain their growth trajectory in the gaming industry, or do you believe PC and mobile platforms will reclaim their lead? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
