The global video game industry is on track to achieve unprecedented financial success, with projections indicating a record-breaking $197 billion in revenue for 2025. This significant growth is fueled by a combination of factors including price increases for both hardware and software, expanded content offerings, and the introduction of new gaming platforms. Mobile gaming continues to lead the market, but PC and console segments are showing robust growth, with PC revenue closely trailing console earnings.
Key Takeaways
- The global gaming market is forecasted to reach $197 billion in 2025, a 7.5% year-over-year increase.
- Mobile gaming will account for $108 billion, representing 55% of the total market share.
- Console revenue is projected at $45 billion (23%), while PC gaming is close behind at $43 billion (22%).
- PC gaming is expected to surpass console revenue within the next one to two years.
- Price hikes on games and hardware, alongside new platform releases like the Nintendo Switch 2, are contributing to the revenue surge.
Market Segmentation and Growth Drivers
Analysts predict the worldwide video games industry will hit a new all-time high of $197 billion in 2025. This substantial 7.5% year-over-year increase is attributed to several key factors. Notably, recent price adjustments for both software and hardware have played a significant role. Furthermore, the availability of a wider range of content and advancements in accounting and revenue recognition practices are also contributing to the upward trend.
The platform breakdown reveals a clear leader in mobile gaming, which is expected to generate a massive $108 billion, making up over half of the total market revenue at 55%. The console and PC markets are remarkably close in their revenue contributions. Console gaming is projected to bring in $45 billion, representing 23% of the total, while PC gaming is set to generate $43 billion, accounting for 22% of the market share. This close competition highlights Microsoft’s strategic focus on the PC space, with indications that future Xbox consoles may integrate more closely with PC functionalities.
Platform Dynamics and Future Outlook
The surge in revenue for 2025 is partly due to increased consumer costs. The standard price for new games has risen, and even older titles are now being sold at these inflated prices. The launch of new hardware, such as the Nintendo Switch 2 in June, has also provided a fresh avenue for software sales, subscriptions, and accessory purchases. Nintendo’s introduction of an $80 AAA title, Mario Kart World, demonstrates consumer willingness to adopt higher price points.
Microsoft has also implemented price increases for its Xbox consoles and accessories, alongside a notable jump in Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription costs. Looking ahead, analysts forecast continued growth, with the total market expected to reach $208.2 billion in 2026 and climb to $227.2 billion by 2028. The PC segment, in particular, is poised to overtake consoles in total revenue within the next one to two years, signaling a significant shift in the gaming landscape.
Top Performers and Trends
In terms of top-performing titles for 2025, PC revenue in major Western markets has been significantly boosted by releases like Battlefield 6, Schedule I, and ARC Raiders. The analysis points to a growing popularity of premium games, a trend towards AA projects, and the successful launch of new intellectual properties. Shooters continue to be the dominant genre on PC.
On consoles, EA Sports FC 26, NBA 2K26, and Battlefield 6 are leading the charts. AAA titles and sports games remain strong performers. Interestingly, exclusivity does not appear to be a barrier to sales, with titles like Ghost of Yotei and Pokemon Legends: Z-A securing spots in the top 10. Games with high monthly active users (MAU) on both PC and consoles include Counter-Strike 2, Minecraft, Roblox, and Fortnite. Peak has also seen considerable success on PC, while Call of Duty leads on consoles, albeit with aggregated MAU across its various entries.
