Console Gaming Revenue Dips in 2024, But Microtransactions & Subscriptions Rise
The console gaming market experienced an unexpected revenue decline in 2024. According to Newzoo’s 2025 PC and Console Gaming Report, console revenue decreased by 3.9% compared to 2023. This drop is largely attributed to a 14% decrease in premium game revenue. However, other models, particularly microtransactions and subscriptions, helped offset this loss.
# Premium Games Losing Ground on Consoles
In 2024, premium game sales accounted for 46% of console revenue, totaling $19.9 billion. While still significant, this represents a notable decrease compared to previous years. Conversely, microtransactions saw a 4.5% increase, reaching $13.9 billion and constituting 32% of total console revenue. Subscriptions experienced impressive growth of 14.1%, reaching $6.9 billion.
# DLC Sales Show Promise
DLC sales also demonstrated significant growth. Driven by games like Elden Ring, Diablo 4, and Destiny 2, DLC sales increased by 2.5% to $2.2 billion. This indicates a growing player interest in in-game content. Microtransactions and subscription models are increasingly contributing to console revenue.
Popular games such as Fortnite, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, and NBA 2K25 are major contributors to the growth in microtransaction revenue. The expansion of subscription services’ user base also supports this growth.
# Positive Outlook for 2025
Newzoo predicts a return to growth for the console sector in 2025. The report forecasts console revenue to reach $47.3 billion in 2025 and $52.4 billion in 2027. Key factors driving this growth include the release of next-generation games and the broader adoption of console systems.
While 2024 was a challenging year for the console industry, the rise of microtransactions and subscription models has begun to compensate for the losses. The future of the industry will depend on its ability to adapt to evolving player habits.