🔍 Summary:
In the U.S., the PlayStation 5 is continuing to outperform its predecessor, the PlayStation 4, in sales, showing a 7% increase after the first 52 months on the market. In contrast, the Xbox Series X and S are struggling, trailing the Xbox One by 19% in the same timeframe, according to data from Circana. Despite the lackluster performance of its latest consoles, Microsoft is not stepping back from the gaming industry. Instead, it is focusing on PC gaming, expanding its Game Pass subscription service, and planning to release major titles like “Indiana Jones and the Great Circle” and “Forza Horizon 5” on the PS5 as well.
Microsoft has also confirmed plans for future hardware, including a next-generation Xbox set for 2027 that will resemble a PC more closely and support third-party storefronts like Steam. This new console will maintain backwards compatibility and be accompanied by a new Xbox handheld device.
The overall video game industry is currently facing a downturn, with February 2025 seeing a 25% drop in hardware spending compared to the previous year, marking the lowest February total since 2020. Despite this, the PS5 was the top-selling console in February, followed by the Xbox Series. The industry is hopeful for a rebound, particularly with the anticipated release of “Grand Theft Auto 6” in fall 2025, which is expected to significantly boost console sales.
Overall, while the traditional console market faces challenges, upcoming releases and new strategies from major companies like Microsoft could invigorate the sector.