While many feel that digitally downloaded games are the future, Interpret LLC says that the death of gaming retail is greatly exaggerated. Only 20 percent of gamers buy digitally, and they end up buying more games at retail than their non-downloading counterparts (2.7 games every 6 months at retail locations).
Other findings showed that while core PC download sites and consoles services grew, major casual gaming portals took a hit as casual gamers spent more time on Facebook and on mobile.
“It is critical that both the publishing and retail sides of the game industry avoid overreacting to a vision of rapid transition to digital distribution that fails to reflect reality,” said Brenton Lyle, Managing Strategist, Interpret LLC. “Whether or not all game sales are digital in ten years, right now the virtues of the retail environment, including convenience, trained sales staff, and the opportunity to encourage impulse buys, are as important as ever.”
Source: Interpret
