Video Game Console Hardware Sales Are Way Down in One Region

2024 European Console Market: A Year of Stagnation

The European video game console market experienced a significant downturn in 2024, marked by declining sales across major platforms. Market saturation and a lack of substantial new releases contributed to this slump. While the PlayStation 5 Pro, a refreshed version of the existing PS5, launched during the year, it proved insufficient to offset the overall decline.

Sales figures reveal a concerning trend. According to Video Games Chronicle, overall console sales plummeted by 21% compared to 2023. Even the PlayStation 5, boosted by the Pro's release, saw a 20% sales drop. The Nintendo Switch fared slightly better with a 15% decrease, while the Xbox Series X/S suffered a dramatic 48% decline. This downturn is largely attributed to the age of current-generation consoles; the original PS5 and Xbox Series consoles launched in 2020, and the Nintendo Switch in 2017. The market appears to be reaching a saturation point, further evidenced by the Meta Quest 3S outselling all major consoles in the US market in 2024.

Shifting Sales Trends: Digital Dominance

The overall European gaming market showed only a modest 1% increase in 2024, reaching 188.1 million units sold (PC and console combined). This slight growth masks a significant shift in purchasing habits. Digital game sales surged by 15%, reaching 131.6 million units, while physical sales plummeted by 22%, down to 56.5 million units. This clearly demonstrates the increasing preference for digital distribution.

Outlook for 2025: Anticipation and Uncertainty

The gaming industry anticipates a more robust 2025, particularly with the upcoming release of the Nintendo Switch 2. This new console is expected to significantly boost sales. It's crucial to note, however, that the reported sales figures exclude several major European markets, including the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, and Austria. Inclusion of these markets could potentially alter the overall picture for 2024.

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