An analyst from the world’s leading media research company Screen Digest has declared that the packaged games industry has peaked, as more gamers move to digital distribution for their shopping needs.
In a recent speech reported by MCV, Ben Keen attributed the downturn in physical sales to the prolonged console cycle and rise of digital vendors such as Steam, Direct2Drive, Xbox Live and PlayStation Network.
"We believe the packaged games industry hit a peak back in 2008," he revealed.
"Unfortunately the market has declined over the last two years and this is expected to continue.
"Even with the release of new platforms, we do not believe that packaged spend will return to the heights of 2008."
Many high street retailers are currently depending on games sales, or more appropriately used games sales, in order to turn a profit.
If Mr Keen’s predictions prove accurate, the likes of Gamestation, HMV and GAME may need to re-evaluate their strategies.
Tags: Industry
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