In 2020, there were an estimated 1.75 billion PC gamers worldwide, up from 1.5 billion PC gaming users in the previous year. Despite slowing revenue growth, PC gaming remains very popular and digital storefronts like Steam or the Epic Games Store making PC gaming titles accessible for gamers worldwide.

A March 2024 survey found that 29 percent of adults in the United States played video games on a computer at least once per week. Weekly PC gaming was highest among respondents aged 35 to 54 years, and lowest among those aged 55 years and above.

In 2020, low-end Games-as-a-Service (GaaS) PC gaming had the biggest audience, reaching nearly 1.7 million users during the the period. The second-largest PC gaming category based on audience size was premium GaaS with about 359.6 million users. The Games-as-a-Service (GaaS) business model refers to live service games that are continuously monetized post-purchase via in-game features such as premium passes, extra online content, and special gaming modes in order to encourage players to keep playing. For example, live services accounted for the majority of video game publisher Electric Arts' quarterly net bookings.

In total, there were 1.75 billion PC gamers worldwide in 2020.

When it comes to pC/laptop video game players in the United States, 42 percent of female consumers fall into this category in the U.S.Statista Consumer Insights offer you all results of our exclusive Statista surveys, based on more than 2,000,000 interviews.

Introduction

Steam Statistics: Steam, developed by Valve Corporation, is the largest digital distribution platform for PC gaming. Launched in 2003, Steam has revolutionised the gaming industry by offering a marketplace for buying, downloading, and playing video games. In 2024, Steam continues to dominate the PC gaming market, providing access to a vast library of games, community features, game development tools, and regular sales events. Steam has a massive global user base, with millions of active players engaging daily.

Steam's influence extends beyond being a game store. It hosts community-driven content like user reviews, discussions, and modding support, contributing to its ongoing success. Understanding the latest statistics on Steam gives insight into its impact on the gaming industry, user behavior, and future trends.

When it comes to pC/laptop video game players in the United States, 31 percent of 18 - 29 year olds do so in the U.S. This is according to exclusive insights from the Consumer Insights Global survey which shows that 46 percent of 30 - 49 year old consumers also fall into this category.Statista Consumer Insights offer you all results of our exclusive Statista surveys, based on more than 2,000,000 interviews.

Global PC games market worth at USD 30.08 Billion in 2024, is expected to surpass USD 35.15 Billion by 2034, with a CAGR of 1.57% from 2025 to 2034.

The gaming PC market size was over USD 60.84 billion in 2024 and is poised to exceed USD 287.87 billion by 2037, witnessing over 12.7% CAGR during the forecast period i.e., between 2025-2037. Asia Pacific industry is estimated to account for largest revenue share of 35% by 2037, owing to quick expansion of the gaming industry in this region.

As of 2021, Asia accounted for over 687 million PC gaming users, more than a third of global PC gamers. Europe was ranked second with about 468.4 million PC gaming users.

According to a survey conducted in South Korea in 2023, around 51 percent of male respondents stated that they played PC games within the last year. One in four female respondents had done the same. Overall, 38.4 percent of respondents had played a PC game recently.

The China gaming market, a colossal industry projected to reach $66.13 billion in 2025, is experiencing robust growth, fueled by a burgeoning gamer population and technological advancements. A compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.63% from 2019 to 2024 indicates a consistently expanding market. Key drivers include the increasing accessibility of mobile gaming, the rising popularity of esports, and the continuous evolution of game technology offering immersive experiences. While government regulations, such as the suspension of gaming licenses in certain periods, have acted as temporary restraints, the market's inherent resilience and the massive user base ensure sustained growth. The mobile gaming segment dominates, followed by PC and console games, reflecting the widespread smartphone penetration in China. The diverse age and gender demographics of gamers further broaden the market's potential. Leading companies like Tencent Holdings, NetEase Inc., and Perfect World Games play crucial roles, demonstrating a mix of domestic and international players. Analyzing the top-performing Android and iOS games reveals crucial trends in user preferences and market demand, which inform development strategies for future game releases. The forecast period from 2025 to 2033 anticipates continued expansion, with the mobile gaming sector remaining a key growth driver. Factors like the improving infrastructure for online gaming, increasing disposable income, and the continued evolution of game genres will further contribute to market growth. However, maintaining sustainable growth will depend on adapting to evolving regulations, fostering innovation within the gaming industry, and understanding shifts in consumer preferences. Competition within the market remains fierce, with both established players and innovative newcomers striving for market share. Continuous monitoring of demographic trends and technological advancements will be crucial for companies seeking long-term success in the dynamic Chinese gaming market. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the dynamic China gaming market, offering crucial insights for businesses and investors navigating this lucrative yet complex landscape. With a study period spanning 2019-2033, a base year of 2025, and a forecast period from 2025-2033, this report leverages historical data (2019-2024) to paint a clear picture of current trends and future projections. We examine key segments, including mobile gaming, PC gaming, and console gaming, providing detailed market sizing and forecasts in millions of units. Recent developments include: September 2022: Tencent Holdings and NetEase, two of China's largest video game companies, got approval to launch new paid games for the first time since July last year, indicating Beijing's relaxation of a two-year crackdown on the tech sector. Seventy-three online games, including 69 mobile games, were given publishing licenses by the National Press and Publication Administration. Licenses were also granted to CMGE Technology Group., Leiting, XD Inc, and Zhong Qing Bao., August 2022: NetEase Inc., a Chinese internet and online gaming services company, announced the acquisition of Quantic Dream SA, an independent video game developer, by its games division, NetEase Games. Quantic Dream will remain separate, focused on producing and releasing video games across all platforms and supporting and publishing third-party created products while using NetEase's enormous game development skills.. Key drivers for this market are: Rapid Advancement in Technological Developments. Potential restraints include: Fluctuating Government Regulations Regarding Gaming Industry. Notable trends are: Mobile Games Occupies the Largest Market Share.

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Europe Gaming Hardware Market Size 2024-2028

The Europe gaming hardware market size is forecast to increase by USD 3.91 billion, at a CAGR of 5% between 2023 and 2028.

The European gaming hardware market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing popularity of e-sports games and multiplayer video games. The region's burgeoning gaming community is fueling demand for advanced gaming hardware to support immersive AR/VR gaming experiences. However, this market expansion faces challenges. The proliferation of counterfeit gaming industry products poses a significant threat, as these inferior alternatives undermine the value proposition of authentic offerings. Companies must prioritize quality and security to differentiate themselves and maintain customer trust. Additionally, staying abreast of evolving gaming trends and technologies is crucial for market success.
Adapting to these dynamics requires strategic planning, innovative product development, and effective marketing strategies. By focusing on these opportunities and challenges, gaming hardware providers can capitalize on the market's potential and navigate the competitive landscape effectively.

What will be the size of the Europe Gaming Hardware Market during the forecast period?

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In Europe's dynamic gaming hardware market, haptic feedback technology is gaining traction, enhancing user experience (UX) for gamers. Facebook Gaming and YouTube Gaming are leading streaming platforms, driving e-sports prize pools to new heights. E-sports leagues and teams are at the forefront of innovation, with high refresh rates and low input lag becoming essential for optimal game performance. RGB lighting and mechanical switches are popular customization options, while game optimization and system requirements remain key considerations.
E-sports players and sponsors continue to shape gaming culture, with e-sports viewership reaching unprecedented levels. Streaming software and e-sports events are essential components of this thriving industry, offering fans an immersive experience with minimal frame rate drops and response time delays.

How is this market segmented?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

Product

  Consoles
  PC
  Accessories


Geography

  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK

By Product Insights

The consoles segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

Gaming consoles, which serve as computer devices for video signal output, have evolved significantly from cartridge-based systems to those with built-in storage. Innovative features like touch controls, voice recognition, and gesture control continue to be integrated. The e-sports phenomenon has fueled the growth of the market, with casual gamers also catered to by options such as OUYA, PlayStation Vita TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV. Artificial intelligence and machine learning have become essential in gaming, enhancing user experiences through personalized recommendations and improved gameplay. Game marketing strategies have shifted towards subscription services, sponsorships, and influencer partnerships, while multiplayer gaming and competitive tournaments continue to attract large audiences.

Virtual reality and augmented reality technologies have added immersive dimensions to gaming, further expanding the market. Gaming software, including game engines and development tools, have seen significant advancements, enabling the creation of high-quality, engaging games. Free-to-play games have gained popularity, with in-game purchases contributing to revenue growth. Gaming peripherals, such as gaming chairs, headsets, keyboards, and mice, offer enhanced gaming experiences, while cooling systems ensure optimal performance. The gaming industry revenue continues to grow, driven by technological advancements and increasing consumer interest. Data privacy concerns have emerged as a significant issue, with companies implementing robust security measures.

Cloud gaming and console gaming have emerged as viable alternatives to traditional PC gaming, while game testing and localization ensure high-quality releases. In conclusion, the European gaming market is a dynamic and evolving landscape, driven by technological advancements, changing user demographics, and shifting market trends. From gaming consoles and accessories to software and services, the market offers a diverse range of products and experiences for gamers of all types. As the industry continues to grow, we can expect further innovations and developments that will shape th

Digital Gaming Market Outlook

The global digital gaming market size is projected to grow significantly, with an estimated CAGR of 11.5% from 2024 to 2032. In 2023, the market was valued at approximately $210 billion and is forecasted to reach $540 billion by 2032, driven by technological advancements, increasing internet penetration, and the growing appeal of gaming across diverse demographics. This expansive growth is largely attributed to the widespread adoption of mobile devices and an increase in the number of gamers worldwide, which has spurred unprecedented demand for a variety of gaming experiences.

One of the principal growth factors of the digital gaming market is the rapid advancement in technology, particularly in mobile and cloud gaming. The proliferation of smartphones and tablets has made gaming accessible to a vast audience, dissolving the barriers of location and hardware limitations. With more sophisticated graphics processing capabilities and improved internet connectivity, developers are able to create more immersive and engaging gaming experiences. This is further enhanced by the rise of cloud gaming platforms, which allow users to stream games directly without the need for high-end gaming consoles or PCs. This shift towards mobile and cloud-based gaming is not only democratizing access but also expanding the overall market size.

Another significant contributor to market growth is the increasing popularity of eSports and live streaming, which is transforming gaming into a spectator sport. Professional gaming tournaments are attracting millions of viewers, generating substantial revenue through advertising, sponsorships, and media rights. Platforms like Twitch and YouTube Gaming have become pivotal in this transformation, offering gamers a platform to showcase their skills and monetizing their content through subscriber donations and advertising. This democratization of content creation and consumption is fostering a vibrant community around gaming, driving engagement and attracting investment from tech giants and traditional media companies alike.

The growing diversity of the gamer demographic is also fueling market expansion. Gaming is no longer confined to a specific age group or gender; it spans across all demographics, with significant growth observed in female gamers and older age groups. Casual gaming has become a popular pastime, facilitated by easy-to-play mobile games that cater to a wide range of interests and skill levels. Additionally, social gaming, which allows interaction among players, has seen a surge, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when people sought virtual interaction. This shift is compelling developers to produce a broader array of game genres and styles to cater to this diverse audience, further boosting market value.

Regionally, Asia Pacific remains a dominant player in the digital gaming market, thanks to its large population, high mobile penetration, and a strong culture of gaming. Countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea are leading in terms of both consumption and production of digital games, with China alone accounting for a significant portion of global gaming revenue. North America's market is also robust, driven by technological innovations and a strong base of professional gamers. In Europe, the market is buoyed by a high adoption rate of consoles and a growing interest in eSports. Meanwhile, regions like Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are emerging markets, where increasing internet penetration and mobile device usage are creating new opportunities for growth.

Device Type Analysis

The digital gaming market is primarily segmented by device type into PC, console, and mobile platforms, each contributing uniquely to the market dynamics. The PC gaming segment has long been a staple in the gaming industry, offering high-performance capabilities that appeal to hard-core gamers who seek superior graphics and processing power. PC games are typically associated with strategy, simulation, and massively multiplayer online genres that offer complex narratives and expansive worlds. The flexibility of upgrading hardware components like graphics cards and CPUs makes PCs a preferred choice for gamers looking for cutting-edge gaming experiences. However, the segment faces challenges from the growing popularity of mobile gaming, which is increasingly capturing the casual gaming market.

Console gaming, historically dominated by companies like Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo, continues to be a significant force in the digital gaming market. The release of next-generation consoles with enhanced ca

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Video Game Market Size 2025-2029

The video game market size is forecast to increase by USD 111.7 billion, at a CAGR of 8.6% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing penetration of smartphones and improving internet access worldwide. This digital transformation has expanded the gaming audience beyond traditional demographics, with an increasing number of women embracing gaming. However, the market faces a notable challenge that is the escalating cost of game development. To remain competitive, companies must continuously innovate and invest in advanced technologies, such as virtual reality and artificial intelligence, to create immersive gaming experiences.
Additionally, the growing demand for mobile games necessitates a focus on cross-platform compatibility and adaptive game design. Companies that successfully navigate these challenges and cater to the evolving needs of diverse gaming demographics will thrive in this dynamic market.

What will be the Size of the Video Game Market during the forecast period?

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The market continues to evolve, with dynamic market dynamics shaping various sectors. Simulation games, esports organizations, and AAA titles coexist, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities. Competitor analysis is crucial for game publishers seeking to optimize player engagement and revenue generation. Real-time strategy (RTS) games and monetization strategies, such as in-app purchases and subscription models, are key areas of focus. Game studios invest in intellectual property (IP) development, leveraging game engines like Unreal and Unity for game development and user interface (UI) design. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies, along with cloud gaming, are transforming the gaming landscape.

Player retention is a top priority, with game updates, social media, and game streaming platforms playing essential roles. Game testing, network programming, and AI programming ensure optimal user experience (UX). Character modeling, fighting games, and puzzle games cater to diverse target audiences, while game design documents guide game development processes. PC gaming and console gaming continue to dominate, with mobile devices expanding the market reach. Game physics, sound design, and level design are integral components of game development. Game marketing strategies, player communities, and online forums foster user engagement. Game localization and quality assurance (QA) processes ensure global accessibility and product excellence.

The continuous unfolding of market activities and evolving patterns underscore the dynamic nature of the video game industry.

How is this Video Game Industry segmented?

The video game industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Platform

  PlayStation
  Xbox
  Nintendo
  PC (Steam, Epic Games Store, etc.)
  Mobile (iOS, Android)


Type

  Offline
  Online


End-User

  Hardcore Gamers
  Casual Gamers
  Esports Enthusiasts


Revenue Model

  Game Sales (Digital & Physical)
  In-Game Purchases
  Subscriptions
  Advertising


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    Egypt
    KSA
    Oman
    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  South America

    Argentina
    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Platform Insights

The playstation segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market encompasses various segments, including sports games, data analytics, game engines, user interface (UI), game development, augmented reality (AR), game controllers, game testing, game art, subscription models, and console gaming. In 2024, the mobile devices segment was the largest and continues to be the leading segment in the market, with over 3.5 billion smartphone and tablet users worldwide. Mobile games cater to a broader audience, including casual gamers, as they are typically smaller in scale and complexity and can be played in short bursts. The market's growth is driven by advancements in technology, increasing consumer demand, and the integration of social media and streaming platforms. Game development companies invest in AI programming, game physics, and game engines like Unreal Engine to create immersive and harmonious gaming experiences. They also focus on player engagement, player retention, and monetization strategies, including in-app purchases, subscription models, and advertising.

Game publishers collaborate with ga

PC Game Market size is expected to be worth around USD 58.8 Billion by 2034, from USD 32.2 Billion in 2024, at a CAGR of 6.2%.

In 2023, the digital console gaming market sales amounted to 32.1 billion U.S. dollars, compared to 45.8 billion U.S. dollars generated by the digital PC gaming market. Packaged gaming sales only amounted to 9.3 billion U.S. dollars.

Gaming Hard Drives Market Outlook

The global gaming hard drives market size was valued at USD 1.8 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 3.9 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 8.7% during the forecast period. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for high-performance storage solutions among gamers and the continuous advancements in gaming technology. The market is also being propelled by the rise of eSports and the growing popularity of high-definition gaming, which require substantial storage capacities and rapid data retrieval speeds.

The increasing popularity of gaming as a mainstream form of entertainment is a significant growth factor for the gaming hard drives market. With advancements in gaming technology, games have become more complex and graphically intensive, necessitating the need for high-capacity and high-speed storage solutions. Additionally, the rise of eSports and gaming tournaments has further fueled the demand for specialized gaming hardware, including hard drives that can support the seamless performance required for competitive gaming. This trend is expected to continue as gaming becomes even more integrated into popular culture.

Technological advancements in data storage solutions are also playing a pivotal role in driving the market. The development of Solid State Drives (SSDs) has revolutionized the gaming industry by offering faster data access speeds, greater reliability, and improved gaming performance compared to traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs). As SSDs become more affordable, their adoption is expected to increase, providing a significant boost to the gaming hard drives market. Moreover, ongoing innovations in storage technology, such as the development of NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs, are likely to further enhance the capabilities and appeal of gaming hard drives.

Another key growth factor is the increasing proliferation of online and cloud-based gaming platforms. With the advent of cloud gaming services, there is a growing need for reliable and high-capacity storage solutions to handle the vast amounts of data associated with game downloads, updates, and streaming. This has led to a surge in demand for gaming hard drives that can offer both high storage capacities and fast data transfer rates. Additionally, the convenience of cloud storage has made it easier for gamers to access their game libraries from multiple devices, further driving the demand for advanced gaming hard drives.

From a regional perspective, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness significant growth in the gaming hard drives market. This growth can be attributed to the increasing number of gamers in countries like China, Japan, and South Korea, which are among the largest gaming markets in the world. The region's strong technological infrastructure and the presence of leading gaming hardware manufacturers also contribute to its dominance in the market. Furthermore, the growing popularity of mobile and PC gaming in emerging markets like India and Southeast Asia is expected to drive the demand for gaming hard drives in the region.

Type Analysis

The gaming hard drives market can be segmented by type into internal hard drives and external hard drives. Internal hard drives are installed within the gaming console or computer and are typically used for primary storage. These drives are preferred by gamers who seek to enhance the performance of their gaming systems, as internal hard drives offer faster data transfer rates and more reliable performance compared to external drives. The demand for internal hard drives is expected to remain strong, driven by the continuous advancements in gaming hardware and the increasing complexity of modern games that require substantial storage capacities.

On the other hand, external hard drives are portable storage devices that can be connected to a gaming console or computer via USB or other interfaces. These drives are popular among gamers who need additional storage space without having to upgrade their internal hard drives. The convenience of being able to carry game libraries and save files across different devices makes external hard drives a popular choice among casual and professional gamers alike. The market for external hard drives is expected to grow as gamers increasingly seek flexible and portable storage solutions to accommodate their expanding game collections.

Within the type segment, there is also a growing trend towards hybrid drives, which combine the benefits of both SSDs and HDDs. Hybrid drives offer the high storage capacities of H

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Gaming Software Market Size 2025-2029

The gaming software market size is forecast to increase by USD 56.3 million, at a CAGR of 6.4% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by revolutionary advancements in gaming engines that support experiences in tablet games. This technological evolution is attracting a larger player base and fueling the market's expansion. Another key trend is the increasing popularity of eSports, which has transformed gaming from a pastime into a professional sport, creating new revenue streams and opportunities for market participants. However, the high capital requirement for developing advanced gaming software and the need for strong online platforms and development tools pose challenges.
Companies must invest heavily in research and development, marketing, and infrastructure to compete effectively in this dynamic and competitive landscape. To capitalize on market opportunities and navigate challenges, gaming software companies must stay abreast of emerging technologies and consumer preferences, while also maintaining a strong financial position. Augmented reality and virtual reality technologies are revolutionizing the gaming industry, providing new dimensions to gaming experiences.

What will be the Size of the Gaming Software Market during the forecast period?

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The market is witnessing significant advancements, with artificial intelligence (AI) playing a pivotal role in enhancing game accessibility and player experience. The market also caters to video gamers on mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets, through mobile gaming software. Cultural sensitivity is a growing concern, leading to the adoption of inclusive design and localization tools. Game preservation is another trend, with data mining and procedural generation techniques used to revive legacy games. Live operations, game events, and player behavior analysis are essential for monetization strategies, which include content updates, player support, and game balance adjustments. 
Game Engines are being optimized with AI to improve performance and enable cross-platform development. Machine learning algorithms are employed for game economy modeling and player segmentation. Cloud infrastructure, edge computing, and game physics are crucial for delivering seamless gaming experiences. Security is paramount, with game updates addressing vulnerabilities and advertising networks ensuring player privacy. Game modding and graphical fidelity continue to be key areas of focus for developers.

How is this Gaming Software Industry segmented?

The gaming software industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  Mobile games
  Console games
  PC games


Revenue Stream

  Box and CD game
  Shareware
  Freeware
  In-app purchases


Platform

  Game engine
  Gaming tools
  Audio engine
  Physics engine


End-user

  Individual
  Enterprise


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    Germany
    Russia
    UK


  APAC

    Australia
    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Type Insights

The mobile games segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Mobile Gaming software, a segment of the dynamic gaming industry, has witnessed significant growth due to the widespread use of mobile phones and tablets. The availability of affordable, high-resolution mobile devices and increasing access to high-speed Internet through 5G technology in major markets like China, the US, Germany, and the UK, has boosted mobile gaming as a preferred platform. In 2024, approximately 2 billion mobile gamers were active worldwide. Mobile games dominate online application stores such as Apple App Store and Google Play, accounting for 25%-30% of the applications downloaded on Android and iOS platforms in 2023.

One significant segment of this market includes games used for competitive play, such as those in the E-sports scene. These include popular titles like Dota 2 and League of Legends, which are supported by platforms like Faceit and ESL. Game analytics, an essential component of the gaming industry, is used to monitor and analyze player behavior, game performance, and user experience. AI scripting and physics engines power game mechanics, ensuring realistic gameplay user experiences. App stores serve as crucial distribution channels for game developers, enabling them to reach a global audience. Game streaming and cloud gaming have emerged as new trends, offering players the convenience of playing games on various devices without the need for high-end hardware. Game design software, including level design, level editor, user

In 2024, PC gamers spent approximately 1.09 billion U.S. dollars on gaming content in the Epic Games Store. Overall, third-party games represented about 255 million U.S. dollars of total player spending on digital gaming content. Epic Games Store is operated by Epic Games, the publisher of battle royale hit Fortnite.

In 2023, the PC gaming market in South Korea increased by around three percent. That year, the PC gaming market was the second biggest sector in the South Korean gaming market.