Gaming Hardware Sales Plummet in Region

European Console Market Slowdown in 2024

The European video game console market experienced a significant downturn in 2024, primarily attributed to market saturation and a dearth of new major console releases. Despite the launch of the PlayStation 5 Pro – the only new console from a major manufacturer – overall console sales plummeted by 21% compared to 2023.

Individual manufacturer performance reflected this trend. While Sony's PlayStation 5, bolstered by the PS5 Pro release, fared relatively better with a 20% sales decrease, Nintendo Switch sales dropped 15%, and Xbox Series X/S sales suffered a dramatic 48% decline. This slump is largely attributed to the aging console market, with the original PS5 and Xbox Series consoles launching in 2020 and the Nintendo Switch in 2017. The success of the Meta Quest 3S, outselling all major consoles in the US market in 2024, further underscores the potential stagnation in traditional console sales across various regions.

Shifting Sales Landscape: Digital Dominance

While console sales faltered, the overall European gaming market saw a modest 1% increase in 2024, reaching 188.1 million units sold (PC and console combined). This growth, however, masks a significant shift in consumer purchasing habits. Digital game sales surged by 15%, reaching 131.6 million units, while physical sales plummeted by 22%, totaling only 56.5 million units.

Outlook for 2025

The year 2025 is anticipated to revitalize the European gaming market, particularly with the upcoming release of the Nintendo Switch 2, expected to drive substantial sales. It's important to note that the reported data excludes several major European markets, including the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, and Austria. The inclusion of these markets could potentially alter the overall 2024 sales figures.

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