How video games are leaving cinema in the dust

Over the past few decades, we've witnessed a remarkable transformation in the entertainment landscape, where the video game and online services industry has emerged as an undeniable leader, surpassing even the venerable film industry. This phenomenon can be attributed to several key factors that have propelled video games to the forefront of popular culture.
 

Accessibility has been a crucial driver of this phenomenon. The proliferation of mobile devices, gaming consoles, and personal computers has allowed video games to reach wider audiences than ever before. Games are now available practically anywhere and anytime, providing a flexibility that cinema can't match.

According to data from the Digital Entertainment and Retail Association, video games accounted for an impressive 42.1% of total entertainment revenues in 2022, surpassing both music and film. This translates to a record-breaking 5.421 billion euros.
 

The introduction of the PlayStation 5 and the continuous growth of the Nintendo Switch have led to an exponential increase in console sales, boosting sector profits. However, the real turning point lies in mobile game titles, which saw a 25% increase in revenue from the previous year, reaching 87.7 billion dollars, especially in the Asia-Pacific regions.
 

According to the International Data Corporation, the global video game industry approached 200 billion dollars in 2022, marking a 20% increase since 2019. In comparison, the combined revenues of the film and music industries reached 124.5 billion dollars in 2022, nearly 80 billion less than video games.

In the European context, Spain ranks as the fifth country in video game revenues, with 2012 million euros in 2022, trailing behind close competitors such as Germany, the United Kingdom, France, and Italy. Although Spain is still lagging in terms of revenue, initiatives like eSports and events like Madrid In Game could swiftly change that situation.
 

Technological innovation, common internet access, and the availability of mobile games have been key factors in the gaming boom. With over 3 billion active players worldwide, gaming has evolved into a social and online experience, forming communities and fostering collaboration and friendship.
 

As the industry evolves, virtual and augmented reality are ushering in a new era. The virtual reality market is expected to reach 92.31 billion dollars by 2027, opening up opportunities in areas such as education, medicine, and architecture.
 

The gaming industry not only surpassed the film industry but has become the reigning queen of entertainment. With exponential growth and a diverse audience, gaming promises to be one of the biggest business opportunities for the next generation. This is just the beginning of an exciting era for the gaming world!
 

Written by Kevin Ordoñez, UX/UI Designer