New data shows that the gaming industry is in crisis. In the last twelve months, significantly fewer new games were sold over the counter than in 2023. However, a single game could single-handedly ensure significantly better numbers next year.
There is little demand for new games
As in the current episode of GI Mirocast show (via Wccftech) is announced, sales of new video games in Europe have plummeted. In the last twelve months, gamers bought 29 percent fewer newly released games than in 2023. There were quite a few blockbusters this year that excited fans. In addition to EA Sport FC 25, which as so often took its place at the top of the list of the best-selling games in Europe, there were also Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 (3rd place), Helldivers 2 (6th place) and Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 (12th place) successful. However, the release of other major titles such as Dragon’s Dogma 2 or Dragon Age: The Veilguard, which only ranked 34th and 68th respectively, was less successful.
Trend is emerging
These numbers confirm a trend that was already shown in the data from the Steam Review 2024. As a result, players are spending less and less time on new releases. Just 15 percent of time is spent on brand new titles. Older games that are between one and seven years old are much more popular. 37 percent of the time, Steam users even play games that are even older.
However, the fact that the sales figures for new releases have fallen so sharply compared to the previous year is also due to an extremely successful year 2023. In addition to Baldur’s Gate 3 and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, games such as Diablo 4, Hogwarts Legacy and Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 were also released.
Better times in sight
However, overall sales figures could recover again in 2025. Big AAA titles are on the agenda at the beginning of the year, such as Assassin’s Creed: Shadows and Monster Hunter Wilds. Above all, GTA 6 should provide a significant boost, provided Rockstar Games sticks to the planned release next year.
Some experts expect the game to shatter all previous sales records. In addition, the release of the Switch 2 should also ensure an improved purchasing mood among Nintendo fans. According to the latest rumors, the console is said to be significantly more powerful than long assumed.
