PS2 leads way to record $50-billion year for games industry

Chris Tompkins — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 10:15:17 -0700

DFC Intelligence is reporting that the gaming industry had a spectacular 2007 performance, with the Playstation 2 still commanding the largest install base in homes worldwide. Of next generation consoles, the Wii has taken the lead, but overall, next-gen systems are being adopted slower than previously expected. The Playstation 3 is in last place, with Xbox 360 ahead of it, but not by much.

DFC points to another factor that is impacting sales, albeit in an unexpected way. The firm says that despite rising gas prices and a slowing economy, the industry has actually benefitted as more gamers stay home and play more. Video games provide a high rate of entertainment return on the dollar, making them a deal in a slowing economy.

DFC also projects that current-generation systems will not reach the install base of last-gen systems until 2013.

More news, commentary, and predictions from The Industry Standard:

Analysis: The real reason Microsoft won't bring Blu-ray to the Xbox: HDi
Analysis: Independent gaming could flourish on the iPhone
Special Feature: Where are they now? The Industry Standard tracks down 10 dot-coms from the Web bubble of the late 1990s

The Industry Standard - PS2 leads way to record $50-billion year for games industry - Comments

PS2 leads way to record $50-billion year for games industry