The global market for Console and Handheld Gaming Software was estimated at US$50.4 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$64.4 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2024 to 2030. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of market trends, drivers, and forecasts, helping you make informed business decisions. The report includes the most recent global tariff developments and how they impact the Console and Handheld Gaming Software market.
Recent trends show significant growth in areas like cloud gaming and an increasing focus on mobile platforms, fueled by the widespread use of smartphones. The gaming software market is also capitalizing on the burgeoning esports scene and the integration of emerging technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and blockchain, which pave new ways for gameplay innovation. Subscription services are becoming popular, offering gamers an economical alternative to access a broad spectrum of content. This adaptability ensures that console and handheld gaming remains relevant, providing a rich, interactive, and accessible gaming experience. Moreover, developers continue to support games post-launch with downloadable content (DLC) and microtransactions, which help maintain player interest over time and open up revenue streams beyond the initial sale.
The handheld gaming segment, in particular, has seen remarkable evolution since the introduction of devices like the Nintendo Switch, which blurs the lines between console and handheld gaming by offering console-quality graphics and flexible play styles. The success of handheld devices now hinges on their ability to integrate seamlessly with extensive software ecosystems and offer unique features that differentiate them from traditional consoles and emerging mobile gaming platforms. As the market expands, developers and manufacturers are focusing on creating hybrid gaming experiences that combine the best aspects of console, PC, and mobile gaming into a singular, portable format. Looking forward, the console and handheld gaming market is poised for further expansion, driven by technological advancements and a growing global audience, setting the stage for a future rich with innovation and new gaming experiences.
Global Console and Handheld Gaming Software Market - Key Trends and Drivers Summarized
The Console and Handheld Gaming Software Market is an integral component of the global gaming industry, thriving on continuous technological advancements and shifts in consumer gaming preferences. This sector delivers immersive experiences through high-quality graphics and audio, creating lifelike animations and sound effects that captivate players by drawing them into elaborately designed virtual environments. Storytelling and character development are significant aspects, enriching the gaming experience with complex narratives that engage emotionally. Furthermore, the market adapts to the evolving trends by integrating features like multiplayer and online connectivity, which foster both competitive and cooperative play through social interactions, matchmaking, and in-game communities.Recent trends show significant growth in areas like cloud gaming and an increasing focus on mobile platforms, fueled by the widespread use of smartphones. The gaming software market is also capitalizing on the burgeoning esports scene and the integration of emerging technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and blockchain, which pave new ways for gameplay innovation. Subscription services are becoming popular, offering gamers an economical alternative to access a broad spectrum of content. This adaptability ensures that console and handheld gaming remains relevant, providing a rich, interactive, and accessible gaming experience. Moreover, developers continue to support games post-launch with downloadable content (DLC) and microtransactions, which help maintain player interest over time and open up revenue streams beyond the initial sale.
The handheld gaming segment, in particular, has seen remarkable evolution since the introduction of devices like the Nintendo Switch, which blurs the lines between console and handheld gaming by offering console-quality graphics and flexible play styles. The success of handheld devices now hinges on their ability to integrate seamlessly with extensive software ecosystems and offer unique features that differentiate them from traditional consoles and emerging mobile gaming platforms. As the market expands, developers and manufacturers are focusing on creating hybrid gaming experiences that combine the best aspects of console, PC, and mobile gaming into a singular, portable format. Looking forward, the console and handheld gaming market is poised for further expansion, driven by technological advancements and a growing global audience, setting the stage for a future rich with innovation and new gaming experiences.
Scope of Study:
The report analyzes the Console and Handheld Gaming Software market in terms of units by the following Segments, and Geographic Regions/Countries:- Segments: Segment (Console Gaming Software, Handheld Gaming Software); Application (Amateur, Professional)
- Geographic Regions/Countries: World; USA; Canada; Japan; China; Europe; France; Germany; Italy; UK; Spain; Russia; Rest of Europe; Asia-Pacific; Australia; India; South Korea; Rest of Asia-Pacific; Latin America; Argentina; Brazil; Mexico; Rest of Latin America; Middle East; Iran; Israel; Saudi Arabia; UAE; Rest of Middle East; Africa.
Key Insights:
- Market Growth: Understand the significant growth trajectory of the Console Gaming Software segment, which is expected to reach US$59.6 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of a 4.4%. The Handheld Gaming Software segment is also set to grow at 1.3% CAGR over the analysis period.
- Regional Analysis: Gain insights into the U.S. market, estimated at $13.2 Billion in 2024, and China, forecasted to grow at an impressive 6.8% CAGR to reach $14.2 Billion by 2030. Discover growth trends in other key regions, including Japan, Canada, Germany, and the Asia-Pacific.
Why You Should Buy This Report:
- Detailed Market Analysis: Access a thorough analysis of the Global Console and Handheld Gaming Software Market, covering all major geographic regions and market segments.
- Competitive Insights: Get an overview of the competitive landscape, including the market presence of major players across different geographies.
- Future Trends and Drivers: Understand the key trends and drivers shaping the future of the Global Console and Handheld Gaming Software Market.
- Actionable Insights: Benefit from actionable insights that can help you identify new revenue opportunities and make strategic business decisions.
Key Questions Answered:
- How is the Global Console and Handheld Gaming Software Market expected to evolve by 2030?
- What are the main drivers and restraints affecting the market?
- Which market segments will grow the most over the forecast period?
- How will market shares for different regions and segments change by 2030?
- Who are the leading players in the market, and what are their prospects?
Report Features:
- Comprehensive Market Data: Independent analysis of annual sales and market forecasts in US$ Million from 2024 to 2030.
- In-Depth Regional Analysis: Detailed insights into key markets, including the U.S., China, Japan, Canada, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa.
- Company Profiles: Coverage of players such as Activision Blizzard, Inc., Activision Publishing, Inc., Arkane Studios SASU, Atlus Co., Ltd., Bethesda Game Studios and more.
- Complimentary Updates: Receive free report updates for one year to keep you informed of the latest market developments.
Some of the 103 companies featured in this Console and Handheld Gaming Software market report include:
- Activision Blizzard, Inc.
- Activision Publishing, Inc.
- Arkane Studios SASU
- Atlus Co., Ltd.
- Bethesda Game Studios
- Capcom Co., Ltd.
- CD Projekt S.A.
- ConcernedApe
- Crystal Dynamics, Inc.
- Electronic Arts, Inc.
- Giant Sparrow
- Guerrilla B.V.
- HAL Laboratory, Inc.
- Housemarque Oy
- id Software LLC
- Infinite Fall
- Kojima Productions Co., Ltd.
- Koei Tecmo Holdings Co., Ltd.
- Mercury Steam Entertainment S.L.
- Microsoft Corporation
- NetherRealm Studios
- Next Level Games Inc.
- Nintendo Co. Ltd.
- Playground Games
- Respawn Entertainment, LLC
- Sony Interactive Entertainment LLC
- Square Enix Holdings Co. Ltd.
- Ubi Soft Entertainment S.A.
This edition integrates the latest global trade and economic shifts as of June 2025 into comprehensive market analysis. Key updates include:
- Tariff and Trade Impact: Insights into global tariff negotiations across 180+ countries, with analysis of supply chain turbulence, sourcing disruptions, and geographic realignment. Special focus on 2025 as a pivotal year for trade tensions, including updated perspectives on the Trump-era tariffs.
- Adjusted Forecasts and Analytics: Revised global and regional market forecasts through 2030, incorporating tariff effects, economic uncertainty, and structural changes in globalization. Includes segmentation by product, technology, type, material, distribution channel, application, and end-use, with historical analysis since 2015.
- Strategic Market Dynamics: Evaluation of revised market prospects, regional outlooks, and key economic indicators such as population and urbanization trends.
- Innovation & Technology Trends: Latest developments in product and process innovation, emerging technologies, and key industry drivers shaping the competitive landscape.
- Competitive Intelligence: Updated global market share estimates for 2025, competitive positioning of major players (Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial), and refined focus on leading global brands and core players.
- Expert Insight & Commentary: Strategic analysis from economists, trade experts, and domain specialists to contextualize market shifts and identify emerging opportunities.
- Complimentary Update: Buyers receive a free July 2025 update with finalized tariff impacts, new trade agreement effects, revised projections, and expanded country-level coverage.
Table of Contents
I. METHODOLOGYII. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY2. FOCUS ON SELECT PLAYERS2. FOCUS ON SELECT PLAYERSIV. COMPETITION
1. MARKET OVERVIEW
3. MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS
4. GLOBAL MARKET PERSPECTIVE
3. MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS
III. MARKET ANALYSIS
Companies Mentioned (Partial List)
A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes, but is not limited to:
- Activision Blizzard, Inc.
- Activision Publishing, Inc.
- Arkane Studios SASU
- Atlus Co., Ltd.
- Bethesda Game Studios
- Capcom Co., Ltd.
- CD Projekt S.A.
- ConcernedApe
- Crystal Dynamics, Inc.
- Electronic Arts, Inc.
- Giant Sparrow
- Guerrilla B.V.
- HAL Laboratory, Inc.
- Housemarque Oy
- id Software LLC
- Infinite Fall
- Kojima Productions Co., Ltd.
- Koei Tecmo Holdings Co., Ltd.
- Mercury Steam Entertainment S.L.
- Microsoft Corporation
- NetherRealm Studios
- Next Level Games Inc.
- Nintendo Co. Ltd.
- Playground Games
- Respawn Entertainment, LLC
- Sony Interactive Entertainment LLC
- Square Enix Holdings Co. Ltd.
- Ubi Soft Entertainment S.A.
Table Information
| Report Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| No. of Pages | 304 |
| Published | July 2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2024 - 2030 |
| Estimated Market Value ( USD | $ 50.4 Billion |
| Forecasted Market Value ( USD | $ 64.4 Billion |
| Compound Annual Growth Rate | 4.2% |
| Regions Covered | Global |
