The Global Games Market Keeps Growing — But the Game Has Changed

For years, analysts anticipated that the surge in gaming during the pandemic would decline once people resumed outdoor activities. They were mistaken. Rather than diminishing, the global video game market has stabilized and even continued to expand. The projections for 2025 indicate an industry that is evolving rather than contracting.

This year, the global games market is expected to generate nearly $190 billion in revenue, marking a significant increase from the previous year. Although this growth rate might seem modest compared to the pandemic boom, it clearly indicates sustainability. Gaming has become a fundamental part of global culture and entertainment, not just a temporary lockdown pastime.

The change is not only in how much money the industry generates but also in where and how it is being generated.

The Shifting Power Balance

Mobile gaming remains the leader, contributing to over half of the total revenues. However, the era of endless mobile growth seems to be slowing. In key markets like China, Japan, and the U.S., mobile spending is leveling off, compelling publishers to compete more aggressively for user attention. The easy gains have been exhausted.

Meanwhile, console gaming is experiencing a revival. The introduction of new systems, including the eagerly awaited next-gen hardware from Nintendo and the ongoing success of the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, has invigorated players seeking premium, high-quality experiences. Major games are selling well again, demonstrating that players are willing to pay full price when quality is assured.

PC gaming, often overshadowed by its more glamorous counterparts, remains the steady backbone of the industry. In areas like Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe, PCs are still the preferred platform—flexible, powerful, and accessible.

Where the Growth Lives

The global gaming landscape is also evolving. While Asia-Pacific continues to lead, growth is accelerating in Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. More affordable hardware, improved connectivity, and localized payment systems are enabling millions of new players to enter the market.

There are now over 3.5 billion people who play video games worldwide—nearly half the world's population. As broadband access expands and mobile devices become more affordable, that number will only increase.

Beyond the Numbers

The nature of today's growth is noteworthy. The industry is no longer expanding based on novelty; it is maturing. Developers are shifting their focus from chasing downloads to fostering loyalty. Subscription models, post-launch expansions, and live-service ecosystems are becoming the new foundations of profit.

However, this stability comes with challenges. Inflation, rising development costs, and regulatory pressures—particularly concerning monetization—are challenging even the largest publishers. Growth now requires discipline.

Nevertheless, the resilience of gaming speaks volumes. After decades of being viewed as a subculture, video games are now a cornerstone of the global economy, with no signs of this changing. The industry isn't just growing; it's maturing.