Video Games in the Netherlands

2020 IMPACT

Video games enjoys significant growth as consumers seek to increase their in-home entertainment during the pandemic

The value growth of video games accelerated dramatically in the Netherlands in 2020. The number of hours that both adults and children spent playing video games skyrocketed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

COVID-19-induced economic concerns appear to have little impact on video games purchases

Affordability does not seem to have been a significant issue amongst consumers deciding to buy video games hardware or software in 2020, despite the pandemic-inspired economic unease and concerns about rising unemployment which have caused Dutch consumers to tighten their belts in other areas. Some consumers consider the initial price to be worthwhile considering the long periods spent using the products.

Purchases via e-commerce leap as consumers avoid bricks-and-mortar stores and mobile games gain increasing popularity

E-commerce was the outstanding winner among distribution channels for video games in the Netherlands in 2020. The fact that many retailers were closed during the lockdown did not significantly limit access to video games software.

RECOVERY AND OPPORTUNITIES

Playtime increasingly encompasses building virtual worlds rather than physical creations

Despite an Indian summer for traditional toys and games in 2020, the future of the global toys and games industry will remain dominated by video games, especially video games software (in-game purchases). The situation is the same in the Netherlands.

Demand for online, mobile and digital games continues to grow while physical formats decline

Opportunities in video games look to be in software rather than hardware over the forecast period. Sales of online games and mobile games are set to see continued strong growth, driven mainly by in-game purchases.

Shopping habits are altered by the pandemic from fun shopping to run shopping

Consumer shopping behaviour has changed as a result of the pandemic. Although retail stores have reopened, with measures in place to limit or prevent the spread of COVID-19, consumers have become hesitant about going for a leisurely shopping trip.