Video Games in Poland

PROSPECTS

Developers seek to cater for increasing consumer demand for new gaming experiences

The release of new games was a key factor behind the ongoing strong growth of video games in Poland in 2018, along with rising disposable incomes. Many Poles are continuously looking for new games which can entertain and stimulate them, with developers thus continuing to invest in more complex games and improvements to previous editions so as to maintain the interest of existing consumers and also attract new ones.

Digital video games continue to gain ground at the expense of physical software

Video games continued to witness a shift from physical to digital software in 2018. Although many gamers appreciate physical games because they can shelve or resell them or swap boxed games once they lose interest in playing them, storing digital games on video games hardware or a computer is increasingly being seen as more convenient, with all games kept in one place.

Sales of in-game purchases increase significantly across all platforms

Another area of strong growth in 2018 was in-game purchases, with this being seen across all video games software platforms. The category is largely being driven by easy access to free-to-play games, with many of these proving popular and even addictive, thus encouraging consumers to then spend money on in-game purchases to further enhance their experience and enjoyment.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Leading player Sony continues to see a decline in share as its PlayStation 4 loses ground to newer platforms

King records further strong growth in video games software but Electronics Arts remains the leading player

Electronic Arts, which offers lucrative titles like FIFA, Battlefield, Need for Speed and Star Wars, remained the leader in video games software in 2018. Since the company acquired the exclusive rights to Disney’s Star Wars in 2013, it has sourced additional profits as this remains one of the most popular licences in toys and games.

Increasing competition sees the leading players reduce their prices in AR/VR headsets

In 2018, the best performing category in video games overall in percentage terms was AR/VR headsets, albeit from a low base. The category is benefiting from increasing competition.

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