Video Games in Germany

PROSPECTS

Smartphones turn into consoles

Video games in Germany has seen dynamic development for several years, including in 2018. New releases of games, and consoles in particular, played a major role, and this trend was accelerated by the ongoing shift from physical media to digital media.

Static consoles sees strong growth, linked to the development of VR/AR

A main reason for the strong increase seen by video games in 2018 was the recent successful introduction of Nintendo Switch and Classic Mini in Germany. As such, static consoles continued to see double-digit growth in 2018.

Dynamism in online and mobile games

The recent and likely further ongoing growth of online and mobile games is negatively correlated with physical software purchases for the computer, as well as for consoles. This contrasting performance illustrates the shift from one gaming medium to the other, and is therefore not necessarily harming the profits of players.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Nintendo and Sony on top

For the first time since 2013, Nintendo overtook Sony, taking the lead both in video games and overall toys and games. The main reason for Nintendo’s stellar performance was the recent introductions of Nintendo Classic Mini and Switch.

Samsung remains the standard in AR/VR headsets

In the fast-emerging category of AR/VR headsets, Samsung leveraged its early-mover advantage to retain the top spot with Samsung Gear VR in 2018. Strong advertising efforts and solid product availability across various retail channels, along with the company’s reputation in electronics, resulted in further strong sales growth in 2018.

Google Stadia

Google announced 2019 as its release year for its latest project, Google Stadia. This is a cloud gaming service, comparable with Spotify for music or Netflix for film and TV.

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