Video Games in Spain

PRE-COVID-19 PERFORMANCE

Digital formats driving growth

Video games software (digital) was a key driver of growth in video games at the end of the review period. The strategy of allowing free access to downloads and subscription services provided positive results by attracting considerable numbers of gamers and generating value through in-game sales.

Gamers waiting for PS5

The launch of Nintendo Switch Lite was not sufficient to arrest the dramatic decline in hand-held consoles in 2019, while static consoles also saw sales fall during the year. Hand-held consoles have likely had their day, with sales continuing to plummet due to competition from mobile games and hybrid consoles.

Sony’s rivals gain ground

Sony Computer Entertainment España retained the lead in video games in 2019, though it saw its share decline, partly as a result of consumer reluctance to invest in purchasing PlayStation 4 consoles due to the anticipated release of the PlayStation 5. Moreover, Nintendo Ibérica, the second largest player in the category, gained share as it saw sales driven by the strong performance of the Pokémon game and the launch of the Nintendo Switch Lite hand-held console in September 2019.

2020 AND BEYOND

COVID-19 impact

Sales of video games are now expected to rise by 12% in 2020 in constant 2019 value terms in light of COVID-19. This compares to a 13% increase forecast for 2020 in the 2019 edition of toys and games, before the spread of the disease.

Affected products within video games

AR/VR headsets is set to be amongst the most dynamic categories in video games in 2020. However, this represents the continuation of an existing trend rather than the direct influence of the COVID-19 pandemic, with growth driven by ongoing innovation and the availability of more affordable products.

Recovery and opportunities

Overall, video games is expected to see healthy growth over 2019-2024, though performances will vary across categories. Video games will benefit from having expanded its consumer base and becoming a routine leisure option during the period of home seclusion aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19.

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