Analysis of the Size and Market Share in the Gaming Industry – Growth Patterns and Predictions (2024-2029)

### Global Gaming Industry Poised for Significant Growth (2024-2029)

The gaming industry is gearing up for a period of remarkable expansion, with key segments such as mobile gaming, consoles, and PC gaming expected to drive growth from 2024 to 2029.

According to industry analysts, the global gaming market was valued at approximately USD 241.7 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach around USD 435.44 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 10.37% between 2025 and 2030.

Mobile gaming, the dominant segment, accounted for 58% of total market revenue in 2024 and is projected to grow from USD 139.38 billion in 2024 to USD 256.19 billion by 2030, at a strong CAGR of 10.2%. This growth is largely fueled by the increasing penetration of smartphones worldwide and robust in-app purchase monetization models.

The gaming console market was valued at approximately USD 24.24 billion in 2024 and is forecasted to grow at a modest CAGR of around 3.03%, reaching nearly USD 28.85 billion by 2030. Hybrid consoles (devices that combine portable and docked play) are the fastest-growing sub-segment, expected to expand at a CAGR of 5.9% between 2025 and 2030.

Although smaller in absolute value compared to mobile and consoles, the PC gaming segment saw a growth rate of 5.7% in 2024. It remains an important contributor due to its global accessibility and the popularity of esports and multiplayer online games, suggesting promising long-term potential.

The rise in smartphone usage, especially in emerging markets where traditional gaming hardware is less accessible, drives mobile gaming growth. Enhanced smartphone processing power and affordability continue to democratize gaming, broadening the user base globally.

In-app purchases constitute about 77% of all gaming-related payments as of 2024 and have remained stable over recent years. Subscription-based models such as PlayStation Plus and Xbox Game Pass are growing, especially in the console sector. Conversely, physical game sales have declined sharply and are expected to fall to only around 2% of total industry revenue by 2026.

Technological innovation plays a significant role in the transformation of gaming experiences. ARM-based processor architectures are gaining momentum, particularly in next-generation hybrid consoles and handheld PCs, growing at a 7% CAGR due to their energy efficiency. Additionally, cloud gaming and streaming devices are impacting console demand in developed regions, somewhat moderating console market growth.

The Asia-Pacific region leads in market share for gaming consoles and is forecasted to be the fastest-growing region overall for gaming. The Middle East and Africa currently hold the largest share in the gaming market, indicating a diversification of growth geographically.

Delays in blockbuster game releases, such as GTA VI, have caused temporary stagnation in console growth, affecting both software and hardware sales and leading to revenue shortfalls in the console segment through 2026.

Esports growth is a key factor in the expansion of the gaming industry. The demography of gamers is becoming more diverse, with increased involvement from women and older age groups. North America and Europe are projected to remain significant markets for the gaming industry. Opportunities for the gaming industry include cloud gaming, cross-platform play, and the use of blockchain technology and NFTs.

AR and VR technologies provide players with immersive and interactive experiences, allowing them to interact with virtual game worlds. Technological innovations, such as AI, VR, and AR, are significant drivers for the growth of the gaming industry.

The integration of AI in game development boosts overall gameplay and player engagement. The global gaming market is projected to grow from $272.86 billion in 2024 to $426.02 billion in 2029 at a CAGR of about 9.25%. Companies like Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo maintain a stronghold on dedicated gamers in the console gaming market.

Gadgets like next-generation hybrid consoles and handheld PCs with ARM-based processor architectures are driving growth in the gaming industry due to their energy efficiency, aligning with the predicted continuous expansion of the industry from 2024 to 2029. The increased utilization of technology such as artificial intelligence (AI) in game development enhances overall gameplay and player engagement, contributing to the projected growth of the global gaming market at a CAGR of approximately 9.25% between 2024 and 2029.