As sequels to popular games continue to succeed, gaming has also taken on a whole new look. The Nintendo Wii has enticed gamers off the couch to play virtual tennis and golf with its motion-sensor controller, and Activision's Guitar Hero has transformed gamers into rock stars.
Online gaming revenue has increased thanks to subscriptions to the blockbuster MMOG World of Warcraft, online services for each console platform, and an uptick in casual game downloads. Mobile phone gaming has also taken hold via new generation of game-friendly phones. Only PC game sales have slowed, as console gaming and video piracy tarnished its lustre. This report includes insights into:
-Alternatives to the pricing model for game sales
-The role of game franchises in sales growth
-Brand qualities of the leading game companies
-Opportunities for innovation
-The role of piracy in the PC segment
-The hold of traditional retailing on game sales
-Consumer opinions and preferences about game platforms and advertising/promotion
-Future opportunities in game development, game marketing and promotion