December sees 2% boost in UK game and console sales
The UK gaming industry saw a welcome boost in sales during the month of December, with a 2% increase in both game and console sales compared to the same period last year. According to data from GSD (via GamesIndustry.biz), a total of 6.9 million digital and physical games were sold in the UK throughout December. This surge in sales is a positive sign for the gaming industry, indicating continued growth and interest among consumers.
Ubisoft’s Avatar enters charts at number 8
One of the notable highlights of December’s gaming charts was the entry of Ubisoft’s highly anticipated title, Avatar Frontiers of Pandora, which made its debut at number 8. This game, based on James Cameron’s blockbuster film franchise, generated quite a buzz among gamers and managed to secure a spot in the top 10 charts. Its success further demonstrates the continued popularity and demand for immersive and story-driven gaming experiences.
EAFC 24 tops charts as Christmas shopping boosts sales
The biggest overall game of the month was EAFC 24, which enjoyed a significant boost in sales likely due to the holiday shopping season. It comes as no surprise that a high-profile sports title like EAFC 24 would appeal to consumers during this time, as sports games tend to be a popular choice for gifting. The combination of the game’s compelling gameplay mechanics and the festive spirit of the season undoubtedly contributed to its success.
Super Mario Bros. and Hogwarts Legacy hold strong in top 5
Two familiar titles, Super Mario Bros. and Hogwarts Legacy, managed to maintain their positions in the top 5 bestselling games throughout December. Super Mario Bros., a beloved classic, continues to captivate gamers of all ages, while Hogwarts Legacy offers an immersive and magical experience in the world of Harry Potter. These games’ ability to hold strong in the charts speaks to their enduring appeal and ability to engage players long after their initial release.
PS5 remains UK’s best-selling console, sales down 19% from November
In terms of console sales, the PlayStation 5 (PS5) claimed the top spot as the best-selling console in the UK during December. Despite its impressive sales performance, PS5 consoles saw a 19% decrease in sales compared to the previous month, potentially indicating supply constraints or a higher level of demand in November. The Nintendo Switch secured second place, while the Xbox Series consoles, counted together, took the third spot. It will be interesting to see if the PS5 can maintain its position as the leading console in the UK market in the coming months.
Overall, December proved to be a fruitful month for the UK gaming industry with a 2% increase in game and console sales. New releases like Ubisoft’s Avatar Frontiers of Pandora made their mark in the charts, while long-standing titles such as Super Mario Bros. and Hogwarts Legacy continued to perform well. The console market remained competitive, with the PS5 leading the pack, but with a slight drop in sales compared to November. These statistics indicate a healthy and thriving gaming market in the UK as we head into the new year.
Analyst comment
Positive news: December sees a 2% boost in UK game and console sales. Analyst prediction: The market is expected to continue growing in the coming months, with new releases and popular titles driving consumer interest and demand.
