Current Trends in Video Game Console Sales in the U.S.

The landscape of video game console sales in the United States presents a mixed scenario. The PlayStation 5 continues to outperform its predecessor, the PlayStation 4, while the Xbox Series X and S are significantly trailing behind the Xbox One.

Recent data from Circana reveals that after 52 months on the market, PS5 unit sales are 7% higher than PS4’s. Conversely, the combined sales of Xbox Series X and S are lagging 19% behind the sales pace of the Xbox One.

While Sony’s console strategy in the U.S. appears strong—especially without a price reduction for the PS5—Microsoft faces ongoing challenges. The Xbox Series consoles have consistently struggled with global sales, and Microsoft has acknowledged its long-standing defeat in the console competition against PlayStation and Nintendo Switch.

Microsoft adopts a broader perspective when evaluating its gaming business success. The company views PC gaming as a key growth area, actively promotes its Game Pass subscription service across multiple platforms, and is rolling out Xbox games on competitor consoles to bolster revenues. For instance, titles like Indiana Jones and the Great Circle and Forza Horizon 5 will soon be available on PS5.

Despite speculation about Microsoft potentially stepping back from the console business due to the underperformance of the Xbox Series X and S, reports suggest that the company has approved a next-generation Xbox slated for 2027, which may include a handheld gaming device. This upcoming console is said to be a premium version following the Xbox Series X and aims to enhance Microsoft’s overall gaming offerings.

Amid declining console sales, with a significant drop noted in February’s video game hardware spending, the industry is facing tough conditions. Nevertheless, there are hopeful indicators for revitalization this year, such as the anticipated launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 and the upcoming release of Grand Theft Auto 6, both expected to significantly stimulate console sales.

Industry leaders like Strauss Zelnick from Take-Two believe that high-profile game releases historically drive console sales, projecting a positive trend due to the upcoming release calendar. “Big titles in the market historically sell consoles,” he mentioned, expressing optimism about the industry’s future despite current declines.