Multi-Platform Dominance: The Key to Gaming Victory
Mat Piscatella, games industry analyst at Circana, asserts that the future of gaming success lies in embracing multi-platform strategies. In a recent discussion, Piscatella highlighted that players are now more loyal to console ecosystems and friend lists than to exclusive titles, making content accessibility paramount for publishers.
Shifting Player Loyalties
Piscatella argues that the era of players switching consoles solely for exclusive games is over. "We’ve been seeing this now for about a year or so," he stated. "Every month you’re seeing a game pop up that’s been gone for a while. And you’re like, how did that happen? Well it came out on another platform."
Key Takeaways:
- Ecosystem Over Exclusives: Player loyalty is now tied to console ecosystems and social connections, not exclusive game titles.
- Content Accessibility is Crucial: Publishers must bring their games to where players already are to achieve success.
- Live Service Dominance: Top live service games capture a significant portion of player time, necessitating broader reach for other titles.
Success Stories in Multi-Platform Releases
Circana’s data shows the impact of multi-platform releases. Microsoft’s Forza Horizon 5, initially launched on Xbox and PC, saw a surge in popularity on PS5, reaching No. 3 in the US charts. Similarly, Sony’s Stellar Blade, after its PS5 debut, climbed to No. 5 in the US charts following its PC release.
Nintendo Switch 2: A Strong Start, Uncertain Future
The Nintendo Switch 2 has achieved record-breaking launch sales in the US, selling 1.6 million units in its first month. However, Piscatella cautions that this initial success doesn’t guarantee long-term dominance. The true test for the Switch 2 will be its ability to capture the mass market gift buyer during the holiday season, especially given economic uncertainties and potential tariff impacts.
Market Resilience Amidst Economic Headwinds
Despite concerns about the US economy, Circana data indicates that the video game market is maintaining its size. While the delay of Grand Theft Auto 6 has impacted growth projections, overall consumer demand remains robust. Piscatella expressed optimism, noting that "the consumer is here, the enthusiast player is here, they’re spending, and that creates opportunity for people to capitalize on it."
Donkey Kong Bananza’s UK Performance
Donkey Kong Bananza has had a strong debut in the UK, potentially marking the franchise’s biggest opening week. While initial physical sales figures are slightly behind Donkey Kong Country Returns on Wii, accounting for direct Nintendo sales would likely place Bananza at the top. The long-term sales performance of Bananza will be crucial, especially leading into the holiday season.
Other Industry News
- Xbox plans to release more games on other platforms, including the Switch 2 and PS5.
- PlayStation is bringing Helldivers 2 to Xbox in August.
- Ubisoft is restructuring into ‘Creative Houses’ and has seen Assassin’s Creed Shadows reach five million players.
- The Chinese Room has regained independence from Sumo Group.
- Splitgate 2 is returning to beta due to player reception, with the original Splitgate being taken offline.
- Epic Games has criticized the UK’s competition regulator for potentially delaying Fortnite’s return to iOS in the UK.
- Ubisoft’s Q1 results were impacted by issues with Rainbow Six: Siege.
- Xbox will maintain its $69.99 pricing for new games, foregoing a planned $79.99 increase.
Sources
- "Bringing your games to other platforms is how you’re going to win", The Game Business.
