The U.S. video game industry continues to show its strength, with total consumer spending reaching $58.7 billion in 2024, according to new data from the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), Circana, and Sensor Tower. While this figure reflects a slight dip from the $59.3 billion spent in 2023, it marks an astonishing 106% increase over the past decade, up from $28.4 billion in 2014. The report underscores the enduring popularity of video games and the evolving ways Americans engage with interactive entertainment.
Mobile Gaming Dominates Content Spending
Video game content spending grew to $50.6 billion in 2024, a 2% increase over 2023. At the forefront of this growth is mobile gaming, which accounted for $26 billion, or about half of all content spending. This represents a notable jump from $24 billion in mobile spending in 2023, solidifying mobile as the leading platform for U.S. gamers. Familiar favorites like Candy Crush Saga and Clash of Clans reached new highs, while titles like MONOPOLY GO! and Royal Match joined the ranks of top-grossing games.
According to the ESA’s 2024 Essential Facts report, 78% of gamers aged 8 and older now play on mobile devices, with nearly one-third of players exclusively using mobile as their gaming platform.
Hardware Sales Decline, Accessories Show Growth
While content spending rose, video game hardware sales fell to $4.9 billion in 2024, down from $6.5 billion in 2023. Conversely, accessories saw a boost, growing 6.7% to reach $3.2 billion. This shift aligns with the maturing console cycle and the evolving preference for digital and mobile-first experiences.
Top Games and Blockbusters of 2024
The year was marked by standout game releases across multiple platforms. On consoles and PCs, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 dominated as the top-grossing game, alongside hits like EA Sports College Football 25, Helldivers II, and x. On mobile, MONOPOLY GO! captured the top spot, followed by Royal Match and Candy Crush Saga.
Gaming’s Broader Cultural and Economic Impact
“Interactive entertainment continues to make a significant, positive mark on both U.S. culture and our economy,” said ESA President and CEO Stanley Pierre-Louis.
The industry’s resilience and innovation have ensured a steady stream of content for players, with games like Fortnite, Minecraft, and Grand Theft Auto V maintaining long-term popularity.
Chirag Ambwani, Senior Vice President of Gaming at Sensor Tower, noted that mobile gaming had a “back-to-basics” year, with strong growth in core genres like strategy and casual gaming. He expects this momentum to carry into 2025 as mobile gaming further solidifies its position in the market.
An Industry on the Rise
Despite minor dips in certain categories, 2024 proved to be a stable and lucrative year for video games in the U.S., with spending trends signaling a bright future for gaming as a cultural and economic force.