People are abandoning video games, according to a study

The increase in PRICES and the growing concerns for the rates And a potential recession are already having a tangible impact on sales of video games, especially in the United States. Furthermore,

US consumers are tightening the belt, and video games are among the categories that are affected. Furthermore, Mat Piscatella. However, circan executive director, has that the increase in prices, concerns for an imminent recession and the expected impact of the rates are leading to a cut of expenses in the gaming sector (through The Game Business).

Despite a certain resilience in overall retail expenditure in the first quarter (increasing by 4.6%), much of this growth is due to the increase in food prices. Furthermore, Circana showed that the expenditure for food. drinks rose by 3%, while generic goods, which include clothing and video games, have fallen by 2%. In people abandoning video games, according essence, People spend more for food because it costs moreand consequently, have less availability for anything else.

An impressive 63% of consumers declare themselves “Extremely worried” for the cost of food. The response to these concerns is clear: 55% seek more offers. discounts, while 44% cut expenses on non -essential items, among which video games are included.

80% of US consumers are worried about a possible recession in the coming months. This brings 62% to monitor their expenses more carefully and 46% a postpone purchases important. Piscitella stressed that these two messages (cost of food and fear of recession) are constant in conversations with consumers.

As for the rates, The situation is more volatile. Consumer opinions have changed dramatically in recent months. even if the vast majority (69%) believe that they will bring at higher prices.

The uncertainty linked to rates pushes 40% of consumers to predict a cut of people abandoning video games, according expenses. and of these, approximately 30% intend to reduce entertainment subscriptions and video games.

Consequently, Circana has Revidently revised his predictions for the video game market in 2025.

Initially, a growth of 4.3% was expected (partly thanks to the wait for Grand Theft Auto 6). Now, the agency estimates a turnover of $ 56.5 billion, with a drop of 4.7% Compared to the previous year and the lowest figure since 2019.

“The furniture is a bit in difficulty this year. the console sector is a bit in difficulty in view of the launch of Switch 2”commented Piscatella:

“But in general, we have a slightly worried consumer, who is holding a little and who really needs to be convinced of the value of his money spent on gaming.”

Despite the current picture. there is a positive note: «The people still love video games»said Piscitella: «It is a wonderful category people abandoning video games, according that continues to do incredible things. But seek value».

This could explain the recent recovery of growth in games subscription services. such as Game Passwhere consumers perceive to obtain greater value for their money.