GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Statistics About The Most Popular Game Genres

The most popular game genres are action, shooter, and sports, with action being the most widely favored among gamers.

Highlights: Most Popular Game Genres

  • Action games make up 25.9% of the global video game market share.
  • As of 2020, Shooter games account for 20.9% of the US video game sales.
  • 68% of people who play games on Smart TVs prefer Adventure genre.
  • The highest-grossing computer game genres in the UK in 2018 were Shooters and Action.
  • In 2021, mobile strategy games reached approximately 10.5 billion U.S. dollars.
  • Puzzle games accounted for 58% of the mobile app market in 2020.
  • RPGs accounted for 18.7% of the games market in Japan in 2022.
  • Shooter games hold 37.7% of the eSports market share.
  • Battle Royale games reached 4.3 billion U.S. dollars in revenue in 2021.
  • Pokemon Go, an AR game genre, has been downloaded over 1 billion times as of 2021.
  • Simulation games hold 13.1% of the total video game market as of 2020.
  • 59% of all ROBLOX players prefer Adventure games.
  • Racing games showed annual growth of 17% in mobile downloads in 2021.
  • 41% of video game players say that open-world action/adventure games are their favorite genre.
  • 17% of gamers in Japan prefer Role-Playing Games.
  • Turn-based strategy games made up only 0.3% of the UK games market in 2022.
  • 62% of console gamers spend most of their time playing multiplayer/cooperative games.

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The Latest Most Popular Game Genres Explained

Action games make up 25.9% of the global video game market share.

This statistic suggests that out of all the video games available worldwide, action games account for approximately 25.9% of the market share. This indicates that action games are quite popular among consumers and have a significant presence in the global video game industry. The data implies that a considerable portion of the market is dominated by action games, showing that they are a prominent genre that attracts a substantial segment of gamers. This insight could be valuable for companies involved in the video game industry in terms of identifying trends, making strategic decisions, and targeting specific consumer preferences.

As of 2020, Shooter games account for 20.9% of the US video game sales.

The statistic “As of 2020, Shooter games account for 20.9% of the US video game sales” indicates that among all video game genres, shooter games, which typically involve players shooting opponents or targets in a virtual environment, represent a significant portion of the total video game market in the United States. Specifically, as of the year 2020, approximately one-fifth (20.9%) of the revenue generated from video game sales in the US can be attributed to shooter games. This data suggests that shooter games have a substantial market share and are popular among consumers, likely due to factors such as engaging gameplay, competitive multiplayer modes, and realistic graphics and experiences.

68% of people who play games on Smart TVs prefer Adventure genre.

The statistic indicates that out of the total population of people who play games on Smart TVs, 68% have expressed a preference for the Adventure genre. This finding suggests that Adventure games are popular among Smart TV gamers. It provides insight into the preferences and trends within this specific demographic, which can be valuable for game developers and marketers looking to target this audience. Additionally, it highlights the importance of understanding the preferences of different player segments in order to tailor game offerings and marketing strategies effectively.

The highest-grossing computer game genres in the UK in 2018 were Shooters and Action.

The statistic “The highest-grossing computer game genres in the UK in 2018 were Shooters and Action” indicates that games belonging to the Shooter and Action genres generated the most revenue during the specified time period within the UK market. This information suggests a strong demand for games characterized by intense gameplay, fast-paced action, and potentially competitive multiplayer modes. The popularity of these genres can be attributed to factors such as engaging storylines, high-quality graphics, immersive gameplay mechanics, and the appeal to a wide audience of gamers who enjoy adrenaline-pumping experiences. This statistic highlights the significance of Shooter and Action genres in the gaming industry and underscores their commercial success in the UK market in 2018.

In 2021, mobile strategy games reached approximately 10.5 billion U.S. dollars.

The statistic ‘In 2021, mobile strategy games reached approximately 10.5 billion U.S. dollars’ indicates the total revenue generated by mobile strategy games in the year 2021. This figure reflects the significant financial impact and popularity of mobile strategy games as a form of entertainment. The increasing adoption of smartphones and mobile devices, coupled with advancements in technology and the growing trend of in-app purchases, have contributed to the steady growth of the mobile gaming industry. The substantial revenue generated by mobile strategy games highlights both the lucrative nature of the mobile gaming market and the high demand for engaging and strategic gaming experiences among consumers.

Puzzle games accounted for 58% of the mobile app market in 2020.

The statement “Puzzle games accounted for 58% of the mobile app market in 2020” indicates that out of all mobile apps available for download and use in 2020, puzzle games represented the largest share, with a proportion of 58%. This statistic suggests that puzzle games were particularly popular among mobile app users during that year compared to other types of apps such as action games, productivity tools, or social media platforms. The high percentage of puzzle games in the market could be attributed to factors such as their broad appeal to a wide range of demographics, engaging gameplay mechanics, and the availability of both free and paid options in the marketplace.

RPGs accounted for 18.7% of the games market in Japan in 2022.

The statistic ‘RPGs accounted for 18.7% of the games market in Japan in 2022’ indicates that role-playing games (RPGs) constituted nearly one-fifth of the total video games market share in Japan in the year 2022. This suggests that RPGs, known for their immersive storytelling and complex gameplay mechanics, are a significant and popular genre among Japanese gamers. The statistic reflects the prevalence and demand for RPGs within the Japanese gaming industry, highlighting the genre’s importance as a key player in shaping consumer preferences and driving sales within the market during the specified year.

Shooter games hold 37.7% of the eSports market share.

This statistic indicates that shooter games, which are a genre of video games that primarily focus on combat involving firearms, make up 37.7% of the eSports market share. This means that out of all the competitive gaming events and activities that fall under the umbrella of eSports, nearly 38% of them involve shooter games. This suggests that shooter games are a significant and popular genre within the eSports industry, attracting a substantial portion of the gaming audience and competitive players. The statistic highlights the prominence of shooter games in the eSports landscape and their impact on the overall market share of competitive gaming.

Battle Royale games reached 4.3 billion U.S. dollars in revenue in 2021.

The statistic “Battle Royale games reached 4.3 billion U.S. dollars in revenue in 2021” indicates the total amount of revenue generated by the Battle Royale genre of video games in the year 2021. This figure reflects the substantial financial success of Battle Royale games, which involve a competitive online multiplayer gameplay style where players fight to be the last one standing. The revenue generated from these games encompasses various sources such as game sales, in-game purchases, and advertising. The significant revenue figure highlights the popularity and profitability of Battle Royale games within the gaming industry, showcasing their ability to attract a large player base and generate substantial financial returns for game developers and publishers.

Pokemon Go, an AR game genre, has been downloaded over 1 billion times as of 2021.

The statistic that Pokemon Go, an augmented reality (AR) game genre, has been downloaded over 1 billion times as of 2021 indicates the immense popularity and widespread adoption of the game among users globally. The fact that it has reached such a significant milestone highlights the game’s success in capturing the interest and engagement of a large audience. The high number of downloads also signifies the game’s enduring appeal and longevity since its release in 2016. Overall, this statistic showcases the significant impact and reach of Pokemon Go as a cultural phenomenon within the gaming industry, cementing its position as one of the most successful and iconic AR games to date.

Simulation games hold 13.1% of the total video game market as of 2020.

The statistic stating that simulation games hold 13.1% of the total video game market as of 2020 indicates that simulation games make up approximately 13.1% of all video game sales or revenue in that year. This suggests that simulation games, which typically focus on replicating real-world activities or experiences, have a significant presence in the video game industry. This information could be relevant for game developers, publishers, and investors looking to better understand the market landscape and make strategic decisions regarding the types of games to create, promote, or invest in. Additionally, this statistic may also reflect the popularity and appeal of simulation games among gamers worldwide.

59% of all ROBLOX players prefer Adventure games.

The statistic that 59% of all ROBLOX players prefer Adventure games indicates that a substantial majority of ROBLOX players have a preference for this specific genre of games among the various options available on the platform. This statistic suggests that Adventure games are particularly popular among the player base. Understanding the preferences of ROBLOX players can have implications for game developers and platform managers in terms of creating and curating content that aligns with the interests of the gaming community, as well as for marketers looking to target this audience effectively.

Racing games showed annual growth of 17% in mobile downloads in 2021.

The statistic indicates that the number of mobile downloads for racing games experienced a significant annual growth rate of 17% in 2021. This suggests a strong and positive trend in consumer interest and engagement with racing games on mobile platforms throughout the year. The 17% increase in downloads signals a substantial expansion in the audience for these types of games, indicating that they are becoming increasingly popular among mobile users. This growth rate could be attributed to various factors such as advancements in mobile technology, the release of new and engaging racing game titles, and the overall appeal of the genre to a wide demographic of mobile gamers.

41% of video game players say that open-world action/adventure games are their favorite genre.

The statistic stating that 41% of video game players say that open-world action/adventure games are their favorite genre indicates the preference of nearly half of the surveyed players for this particular type of game. This statistic suggests a significant proportion of the gaming population finds enjoyment in the freedom, immersive environments, and adventurous gameplay that open-world action/adventure games typically offer. Understanding player preferences and trends like this can be valuable for game developers, marketers, and researchers in guiding decisions related to game design, promotion, and market positioning within the gaming industry.

17% of gamers in Japan prefer Role-Playing Games.

The statistic ‘17% of gamers in Japan prefer Role-Playing Games’ indicates that out of the total population of gamers in Japan, approximately 17% have a preference for playing Role-Playing Games (RPGs) over other types of games. This information provides insight into the gaming preferences within the Japanese gaming community, highlighting the popularity of RPGs among gamers in the country. Understanding such preferences can be valuable for game developers, marketers, and researchers aiming to target and cater to the specific interests of Japanese gamers, as well as for shaping future trends in the gaming industry in Japan.

Turn-based strategy games made up only 0.3% of the UK games market in 2022.

The statistic “Turn-based strategy games made up only 0.3% of the UK games market in 2022” indicates that this specific genre of games had a very limited presence and market share within the UK gaming industry during that year. With only 0.3% of the market attributed to turn-based strategy games, it suggests that these types of games were not as popular or widely consumed compared to other genres or categories of games. This statistic can reflect the preferences and trends of UK gamers, as well as the competitive landscape within the industry, influencing game developers and publishers in their strategic decisions regarding game development and marketing strategies.

62% of console gamers spend most of their time playing multiplayer/cooperative games.

The statistic of 62% of console gamers spending most of their time playing multiplayer/cooperative games indicates that a significant majority of console gamers prefer engaging in multiplayer or cooperative gameplay experiences over solo gaming. This suggests a trend towards social and interactive gaming experiences among console gamers, highlighting the appeal of connecting with others and playing collaboratively or competitively. The statistic implies that the gaming industry may increasingly cater to the demand for multiplayer/cooperative options, as it aligns with the preferences of a large segment of the console gaming community. Additionally, it underscores the importance of multiplayer functionality and online connectivity in modern console gaming.

Conclusion

The landscape of gaming is vast and diverse, filled with a multitude of genres to cater to every kind of player. From the high-intensity action of first-person shooters to the immersive storytelling of role-playing games, there is something for everyone in the world of gaming. By understanding the most popular game genres, we can better appreciate the incredible variety and creativity that the gaming industry has to offer. Whether you prefer strategy, sports, or adventure, there is a game genre out there waiting for you to explore and enjoy.

References

0. – https://www.www.videogameschronicle.com

1. – https://www.esportsobserver.com

2. – https://www.www.businessofapps.com

3. – https://www.www.limelight.com

4. – https://www.gameworldobserver.com

5. – https://www.www.pocketgamer.biz

6. – https://www.www.statista.com

7. – https://www.www.gamasutra.com

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

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