UPDATE: The global games market is set to reach a record-breaking $197 billion by the end of 2025, according to new data from Newzoo. This significant growth, projected at 7.5% year-on-year, is driven by a stronger-than-expected performance in both PC and mobile gaming sectors.
Newzoo’s analyst Tianyi Gu revealed the forecast in a press release detailing trends from January to November 2025. The firm has revised its earlier projections upward, highlighting robust sales figures in the face of increasing competition. “The global games market is expected to reach $197 billion in 2025, growing +7.5% year on year,” Gu stated.
Mobile gaming is anticipated to dominate, generating about half of the total market revenue, while PC gaming is expected to bring in an impressive $43 billion, reflecting a growth of 10.4% year-on-year. This surge underscores the demand for high-quality premium content, with a slate of successful releases bolstering sales despite the crowded landscape.
Newzoo’s report identifies key premium releases contributing to this growth, emphasizing the impact of full-price games on PC performance. Notably, the absence of Call of Duty from the top rankings has raised eyebrows, especially as Activision and Microsoft pivot their strategy in response to market shifts.
As gamers flock to live-service titles, enduring favorites such as Counter-Strike 2, Minecraft, and Fortnite continue to dominate user engagement. The data reveals that players are increasingly spending their time in immersive worlds, reinforcing the social aspect of gaming.
What does this mean for the industry moving forward? Analysts suggest that the focus will shift toward enhancing player experience and developing innovative content to maintain engagement. With the upcoming releases in 2026 generating excitement, the gaming landscape is poised for dynamic changes.
Stay tuned for further updates as the gaming industry evolves and new trends emerge. The record-breaking forecast not only highlights the industry’s resilience but also promises engaging experiences for gamers worldwide.
