I Videogiochi in Italia 2018

The Italian video game market experienced a period of robust expansion in 2018, reaching a total turnover of 1.7 billion euros. This 18.9% year-over-year growth underscores the increasing economic significance of the sector within the national landscape. The primary catalyst for this surge was the digital software segment, which saw an exceptional 86.6% increase, reflecting a broader shift in consumer behavior toward digital distribution channels across mobile, PC, and console platforms.

The industry serves a substantial base of 16.3 million players, accounting for 37% of the Italian population between the ages of 6 and 64. Consumer preferences remain heavily concentrated on action and shooter titles, which continue to dominate the software landscape. Furthermore, the market demonstrates a commitment to responsible consumption, as evidenced by the fact that 58% of physical game sales in 2018 consisted of titles rated PEGI 12 or lower, indicating a strong focus on age-appropriate content for younger demographics.

The Italian video game ecosystem is supported by a diverse network of domestic developers and international publishers, coordinated through the Associazione Editori Sviluppatori Videogiochi Italiani (AESVI). Based in Milan, this association plays a critical role in the industry’s development by providing institutional advocacy, conducting ongoing market analysis, and organizing major promotional events such as Milan Games Week. These efforts ensure that the sector remains well-positioned to navigate the evolving digital landscape while maintaining a structured approach to growth and consumer safety.