PC has always been the most popular and diverse gaming platform in the industry, but did it remain on top in 2023? Or have the consoles finally overtaken PC?
GSD data published on GamesIndustry.biz suggests that in Europe, PS4 game sales were higher than Xbox Series X/S software gaming sales last year.
PS4 hardware sales rose 671% year-on-year, while Xbox Series X/S consoles were down nearly 18% year-on-year. 182 million PC and console games were sold across Europe, up by 1.7% compared to 2022.
The largest platform for game sales was PC, followed by PS5, Switch, PS4 and Xbox Series X/S. Only Switch and PS4 saw a decline in software sales compared to last year. The best-selling games of 2023 were EA Sports FC, Hogwarts Legacy, FIFA 23, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, and GTA 5.
Total console sales were up almost 42% year-on-year (7.4 million). The number 1 console – with an increase of 177% in sales – was the PS5. Switch held the number 2 spot, though saw an almost 10% drop in 2023. Xbox Series X/S took the number 3 spot, with PS4 following.
What will these stats mean for the future of PC and gaming consoles? It is clear that PC currently dominates the market, and here are five reasons why:
1) More Games Available
Steam and other digital distributors have tens of thousands of games on offer between them, with many not yet ported over to consoles. PC gamers are spoiled for choice.
2) Better Graphic Options
With the right graphics card and other parts, PC gamers can enjoy games at double the FPS of any console. This is especially good for large open-world and AAA games.
3) Modding, Customisation & Control
PC gamers have the option to add mods to their games. These are fanmade downloads that add additional content. From extra story content to additional guns and cars, with plenty of meme-based mods on offer. The only limit is the community’s creativity.
Additionally, you can customise the look and feel of your PC setup – adding RGB lights, mapping keys, etc. Gaming mice are more precise than console controllers, meaning unrivalled accuracy during FPS games.
4) No Limitations for Playing with Friends
Some console games have cross-play, but not all. If you have a PlayStation and your friend has an Xbox, your choice of games to play together is limited. On PC, you can play any game with anyone – so long as your hardware can handle it.
5) PC Games Are Often Cheaper
There are various digital distribution platforms offering PC games, allowing you to easily shop around for the best deals.
While it is unlikely that any console will usurp PC gaming in 2024, anything can happen!
How do you game: console, PC, or both? Can consoles catch up with PC gaming’s popularity? Will Xbox or PlayStation win the console wars?