Here’s a question that never really came up before, is bundling a game with a console the cause of game sale drops? According to UK retailers they just might be. And the reason for this is consumers get the game they want in the bundle and feel they don’t need to buy any more games.
In 2014 fewer physical games were sold compared to 2013. With newer releases not living up to the numbers expected by the retailers. Some retail experts even go as far as stating that it may be the success of the consoles that is hurting game software sales.
Chart-Track director Dorian Block states “It’s a complex issue. Most people have what they need right now,[due to software bundling], or are dabbling in second hand.” But are people really satisfied with the games they have, or could there be another reason for the decline?
Nick Parker, a game industry analyst has another idea of what could be happening. He states that it may be the case of blockbuster game availability, and the ever increase of Indie games. He also states that “Gamers now concentrate on one or two console releases a year, and spend their remaining budget on digital [games, and content].”
One purchasing director offers a third theory. Steve Moore mentions that it’s the lack of must have games like Destiny that is to blame.
While anyone of these theories, or a combination of any of them, could be the reason, this author would like to think that it’s because this generation of gamers are growing up and acquiring a more complex palette for gaming. Seeking out that one of a kind game that will suit their playing style.