The world of video games has undergone several changes over the years,reflecting shifts in technology as well as consumer behavior. One of the most significant of such changes is the shift from physical, boxed video games to digital downloads and streaming platforms. In the US, this trend has been particularly pronounced, wiht an accelerating decline in the sales of boxed video games.
Examining the Trend
Push Square, a renowned gaming analytics firm, has been closely monitoring the decline in the sales of physical video games in the US. Their findings indicate that while still popular among a subset of gamers, physical games have taken a considerable hit in recent years.
This downward trend can be largely attributed to the rise of digital platforms.Apart from offering convenience, digital platforms provide a wider range of titles, faster updates, and often, better pricing. With all these advantages, it is not surprising that more and more gamers are switching over to digital platforms.
The Numbers Do Not Lie
The data collected by Push Square paints a pretty clear picture of this shift.The firm states that in 2020, boxed video game sales represented only around 25% of all games sold in the US, down from 70% in 2009. Not only is the percentage declining, but the absolute numbers are also shrinking for boxed game sales, despite the gaming industry experiencing unprecedented growth in total revenue.
Adapting to the Digital Age
As physical game sales continue to decline, gaming companies have no choice but to adapt. Industry giants such as Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo have seen their digital sales soar in the past few years. Similarly, indie developers who may not have the resources to mass-produce physical copies can now share their creations with the world via digital platforms.
That said,boxed video games are not likely to disappear completely. There is a nostalgic charm to physical games, especially for long-time gamers who grew up collecting, buying, and swapping physical copies.
The Future of Video Gaming
It truly seems the future of gaming in the US, and perhaps worldwide, rests with digital platforms. While boxed video games will hold their piece of the market, they are unlikely to regain their former dominance.
Though,trends change,and the gaming industry’s dynamism emphasizes this. It is indeed exciting to contemplate what’s to come in the world of video games, but one thing remains certain – the world is moving away from the physical and toward digital.
