Market (PC & Console)·Updated Mar 17, 2026 by Newzoo
The PC and console market generated $92.3 billion in 2022, representing a 2.2% year-on-year decline that signals a stabilization toward pre-pandemic levels rather than a long-term downturn.
Microtransactions and downloadable content now account for nearly 50% of total consumer spending, reflecting a fundamental industry shift from product-based sales to a service-oriented model.
Engagement metrics saw a significant contraction in 2022, with total playtime dropping 15% and hardcore player activity falling by 37%.
The industry maintains a massive reach of 1.1 billion PC players and 611 million console players, with 72% of users now engaging across multiple platforms.
Console gaming is projected to be the primary driver of market expansion over the next three years, supported by stabilized hardware supply chains and a dense pipeline of blockbuster releases.
Gaming has evolved into a social lifestyle ecosystem where 75% of players participate in content creation or social activities, and women now comprise 40% of the total audience.
Transmedia strategies and live-service titles like Fortnite and Roblox remain dominant, with media adaptations successfully revitalizing older intellectual properties.
The PC and console market generated $92.3 billion in 2022, representing a 2.2% year-on-year decline that signals a stabilization toward pre-pandemic levels rather than a long-term downturn.
Microtransactions and downloadable content now account for nearly 50% of total consumer spending, reflecting a fundamental industry shift from product-based sales to a service-oriented model.
Engagement metrics saw a significant contraction in 2022, with total playtime dropping 15% and hardcore player activity falling by 37%.
The industry maintains a massive reach of 1.1 billion PC players and 611 million console players, with 72% of users now engaging across multiple platforms.
Console gaming is projected to be the primary driver of market expansion over the next three years, supported by stabilized hardware supply chains and a dense pipeline of blockbuster releases.
Gaming has evolved into a social lifestyle ecosystem where 75% of players participate in content creation or social activities, and women now comprise 40% of the total audience.
Transmedia strategies and live-service titles like Fortnite and Roblox remain dominant, with media adaptations successfully revitalizing older intellectual properties.