console sales Archives

AppWizard

February 19, 2025

Spencer: Xbox isn’t trying to move players away from owning games

Phil Spencer, head of Microsoft's gaming division, clarified that Microsoft is not trying to move players away from game ownership but aims to provide various options for gaming, including traditional ownership and subscription models like Xbox Game Pass. He reassured gamers about the future of hardware and the ability to continue playing their games, emphasizing the company's commitment to maintaining players' libraries through features like backward compatibility and Play Anywhere. Spencer stated that players can purchase any game available on Game Pass, reinforcing the flexibility in gaming experiences. He acknowledged the need for profitability while focusing on maximizing options for gamers. Additionally, he noted that embracing Windows and cloud technology has been crucial for Microsoft's growth, particularly in Asia, where cloud and PC gaming are expanding rapidly.

AppWizard

February 12, 2025

As console exclusivity quietly dies, I’m reaping the rewards on PC

The author owns a PC, Xbox Series S, and Nintendo Switch but does not own a PlayStation 5, despite initially intending to acquire one. They have resisted the urge to buy a PS5 due to the decline of console exclusivity, allowing them to wait for PC releases of titles like Marvel's Spider-Man 2 and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. Historically, most desired PlayStation titles have eventually become available on other platforms, with the exception of Bloodborne. The gaming industry is shifting away from exclusivity, with titles like Forza Horizon 5 moving to PlayStation and Square Enix releasing games like Octopath Traveler across multiple platforms. The author prefers investing in PC games but acknowledges exceptions like GTA 6, which may be a console exclusive, and Nintendo's unique IPs that can only be accessed through their consoles. The gradual decline of console exclusivity is seen as beneficial for both developers and gamers.

AppWizard

February 11, 2025

GTA 6 PC Launch Teased By Rockstar Games’ Parent Company CEO

Strauss Zelnick, CEO of Take-Two Interactive, indicated that GTA 6 may eventually be released on PC, despite its initial exclusive launch on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S in Fall 2025. Historically, Rockstar Games has released titles on consoles first, with PC versions arriving later, as seen with GTA V and Red Dead Redemption 2. Zelnick acknowledged the importance of the PC market, stating that PC sales can account for over 40% of a game's total sales and noted the growing significance of PC gaming in their strategy. He also mentioned the potential for a delay in GTA 6's release into 2026. Take-Two's share price recently reached an all-time high, reflecting investor optimism about GTA 6.

AppWizard

February 11, 2025

Grand Theft Auto VI Could Lose Over 40% of Sales Skipping PC Release This Year; Game Will Meaningfully Drive Console Sales

Take-Two Interactive's CEO, Strauss Zelnick, stated that Grand Theft Auto VI will initially launch on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, with a PC version expected to follow later. He noted that PC versions of multiplatform titles typically account for over 40% of total sales, highlighting the significance of the PC gaming market. Zelnick believes the console-only launch will boost console sales, which have been declining, and positively impact other major releases this year, especially in the U.S. He also mentioned the possibility of delays in the game's release due to its ambitious nature, which may require additional development time.

AppWizard

February 10, 2025

Take-Two CEO hints at GTA 6 release for PC

Take-Two's CEO, Strauss Zelnick, indicated that a PC launch for GTA 6 may occur after its initial release on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, following the pattern of previous Rockstar titles. Historically, Rockstar has released games on select platforms first before transitioning to others, as seen with Red Dead Redemption 2 and Grand Theft Auto V. Zelnick acknowledged the growing importance of PC gaming but confirmed that GTA 6 will debut on consoles first. He believes that the game's popularity will drive console sales, and if it later launches on PC, many players would likely repurchase it for modding and exclusive features. While a PC launch has not been officially confirmed, it is expected to follow a successful console debut.

AppWizard

February 10, 2025

GTA 6 publishers think PC is of “increasing” importance in 2025, but still won’t announce the magic date

Take-Two Interactive's CEO, Strauss Zelnick, highlighted the increasing importance of PC gaming in the market and indicated that the release date for Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6) on PC has not yet been announced. GTA 6 is set to launch on Xbox and PlayStation in the fall of 2025. Historically, PC versions of Rockstar Games titles have been released after their console counterparts, with GTA 5 debuting on PC approximately 18 months after its initial console release. Zelnick noted that the PC version of a multiplatform title can contribute over 40% to total sales. He expressed optimism that the release of GTA 6 could boost console sales, despite current stagnation in the console market and ongoing trade disputes. The delay in announcing the PC release date may be a strategy to maximize initial console sales before offering a refined version for PC.

AppWizard

February 10, 2025

Take-Two chief says PC has become a ‘more important part of what used to be a console business,’ but he’s still not committing to a Grand Theft Auto 6 release

Take-Two Interactive's CEO, Strauss Zelnick, emphasized the growing importance of PC gaming in the industry, noting that it significantly contributes to sales for multiplatform titles. He mentioned the recent launch of Sid Meier's Civilization 7 on multiple platforms simultaneously but indicated that this strategy may not apply to all games. Speculation exists that the release of Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6) on PC may be delayed to maximize revenue by initially launching on consoles. Zelnick acknowledged that PC has become a crucial part of the gaming landscape and hinted that the release of GTA 6 on PC might not occur until after the next console generation. He also predicted an increase in console sales in 2025 due to a strong release schedule. The timeline for a PC release of GTA 6 remains uncertain, with speculation suggesting a possible 2026 launch.

AppWizard

November 15, 2024

PC and console sales down 46% at Embracer

Embracer Group reported a 46 percent decline in net sales for its PC and console division in the second quarter of the fiscal year, generating SEK 2.12 billion. The downturn is attributed to a sparse release schedule and mixed reception of launched titles. The company also experienced a 33 percent drop in organic growth within the sector. CEO Lars Wingefors indicated expectations of lower earnings for the year due to delays in notable releases and ongoing efforts to improve efficiency and ROI.

AppWizard

November 12, 2024

Stellar Blade is officially coming to PC in 2025

Shift Up plans to launch Stellar Blade on PC in 2025, anticipating higher sales than its console version. The game features Eve, a heroine, and is expected to benefit from enhanced graphics and performance due to Unreal Engine 4. There are concerns about potential performance issues related to Unreal Engine 4, but the development team is focused on refining the PC version for a smooth experience.

AppWizard

October 31, 2024

COD Black Ops 6 brought in more Game Pass players than any other launch

The launch of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 has set a record for the franchise, achieving the highest launch figures in its history and driving more Game Pass subscriptions than any previous launch. The game had the biggest Day One player count and Game Pass subscriber adds. Unit sales on PlayStation and Steam increased by over 60 percent year-over-year. For the quarter ending September 30th, Microsoft's gaming division reported revenue of .7 billion, a 43 percent increase, with Xbox content and services growing by 61 percent year-on-year, partly due to the acquisition of Activision Blizzard. Hardware sales declined by 29 percent, but Game Pass achieved record revenues and the highest average revenue per subscriber to date.