Skip to main content
  1. Market Insights
  2. Advertising and media
  3. Media
  4. Games

Download Games - NAFTA

NAFTA
  • In NAFTA, revenue in the Download Games market market is projected to reach US$5.76bn in 2024.
  • Revenue is expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2024-2029) of 5.59%, resulting in a projected market volume of US$7.56bn by 2029.
  • In the Download Games market market within NAFTA, the number of users is expected to amount to 195.0m users by 2029.
  • User penetration will be 36.3% in 2024 and is anticipated to hit 37.2% by 2029.
  • In global comparison, most revenue will be generated the United States, amounting to US$5.05bn in 2024.
  • The average revenue per user (ARPU) in the Download Games market market in NAFTA is projected to amount to US$31.13 in 2024.
  • In the United States, the download games market is increasingly dominated by mobile platforms, reflecting a shift towards more accessible gaming experiences.

Definition:

Download games refer to video games that are purchased and downloaded digitally over the internet, rather than being obtained through physical copies. This method allows players to access games directly on their gaming devices, such as consoles, computers, or mobile devices, without the need for physical discs or cartridges. Download games often include a wide variety of genres and titles, ranging from indie games to blockbuster releases, and are distributed through various digital storefronts or platforms. Players can enjoy the convenience of instant access to their games and often benefit from additional content, updates, and online features provided by the publishers.

Additional Information:

The market comprises revenues, users, average revenue per user, and penetration rates. Revenues are generated through purchases. Key players in the market are companies, such as Electronic Arts (EA), Activision Blizzard, and Ubisoft.

In-Scope

  • Online sales of video games for gaming consoles or PCs/laptops via direct downloads such as Electronic Arts (EA), Activision Blizzard, and Ubisoft

Out-Of-Scope

  • Physical video game sales
  • Demo/trial-versions of video games
Games: market data & analysis - Cover

Market Insights report

Games: market data & analysis

Study Details

    Revenue

    Notes: Data was converted from local currencies using average exchange rates of the respective year.

    Most recent update: Nov 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Most recent update: Nov 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Analyst Opinion

    The Download Games market in NAFTA has been experiencing significant growth in recent years, driven by changing customer preferences and favorable market conditions.

    Customer preferences:
    One of the key factors driving the growth of the Download Games market in NAFTA is the increasing popularity of mobile gaming. With the widespread adoption of smartphones and tablets, more and more consumers are turning to mobile devices as their primary gaming platform. This shift in customer preferences has led to a surge in demand for downloadable games, which can be easily accessed and played on mobile devices. Additionally, the convenience of downloading games directly to a device has made it a preferred choice for many gamers, as it eliminates the need for physical copies or game cartridges.

    Trends in the market:
    The Download Games market in NAFTA is also witnessing a rise in the popularity of online multiplayer games. With the advancement of technology and the widespread availability of high-speed internet, gamers are increasingly seeking immersive and interactive gaming experiences. Online multiplayer games offer the opportunity to connect and compete with players from around the world, creating a sense of community and enhancing the overall gaming experience. This trend has led to a growing demand for downloadable online multiplayer games, driving the growth of the market.

    Local special circumstances:
    In addition to changing customer preferences, the Download Games market in NAFTA is also influenced by local special circumstances. For example, the presence of major gaming companies and studios in the region has contributed to the growth of the market. The NAFTA region is home to some of the largest gaming companies in the world, which have a strong presence in the download games market. These companies have the resources and expertise to develop and market high-quality games, attracting a large customer base.

    Underlying macroeconomic factors:
    Several underlying macroeconomic factors have also contributed to the growth of the Download Games market in NAFTA. The region has a high level of disposable income, which allows consumers to spend more on entertainment and leisure activities, including gaming. Additionally, the NAFTA region has a large and technologically advanced consumer base, which creates a favorable market for download games. The strong economic growth and technological advancements in the region have created a conducive environment for the development and expansion of the Download Games market. In conclusion, the Download Games market in NAFTA is experiencing significant growth due to changing customer preferences, such as the increasing popularity of mobile gaming and online multiplayer games. The presence of major gaming companies in the region and favorable macroeconomic factors have also contributed to the growth of the market. With the continued advancement of technology and the increasing demand for immersive gaming experiences, the Download Games market in NAFTA is expected to continue its upward trajectory in the coming years.

    Users

    Most recent update: Nov 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Global Comparison

    Most recent update: Nov 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Methodology

    Data coverage:

    The data encompasses B2C enterprises. Figures are based on the Video Games market. Digital video games are defined as fee-based video games distributed over the internet. These include online games, download games, mobile games, and gaming networks. All monetary figures refer to consumer spending on digital goods or subscriptions in the respective market. This spending factors in discounts, margins, and taxes.

    Modeling approach / market size:

    The market size is determined through a bottom-up approach. We use annual financial reports of the market-leading companies and industry associations, third-party studies and reports, survey results from our primary research (e.g., Consumer Insights), as well as performance factors (e.g., user penetration, price per product, usage) to analyze the markets. To estimate the market size for each country individually, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific industry associations, such as various macroeconomic indicators, historical developments, current trends, and reported performance indicators of key market players. In particular, we consider average prices and annual purchase frequencies.

    Forecasts:

    We apply a variety of forecasting techniques, depending on the behavior of the relevant market. For instance, the S-curve function and exponential trend smoothing are well suited for forecasting digital products and services due to the non-linear growth of technology adoption. The main drivers are GDP per capita, consumer spending per capita, and 4G coverage.

    Additional notes:

    The data is modeled using current exchange rates. The market is updated twice a year in case market dynamics change. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is considered at a country-specific level. The data is modeled using current exchange rates. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level. The market is updated twice a year. In some cases, the data is updated on an ad hoc basis (e.g., when new, relevant data has been released or significant changes within the market have an impact on the projected development). Consumer Insights data is reweighted for representativeness.

    Advertising & Media

    Access more Market Insights on Advertising & Media topics with our featured report

    Games: market data & analysis - BackgroundGames: market data & analysis - Cover

    Key Market Indicators

    Notes: Based on data from IMF, World Bank, UN and Eurostat

    Most recent update: Sep 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Contact

    Get in touch with us. We are happy to help.