Key Takeaways
Created with AI - we're still experimenting, so apologies if it misses the mark
- Console sales in the United States experienced a significant decrease in November 2025, reaching levels not seen since the 1990s, with only 1.6 million consoles sold compared to 3.9 million in 2019.
- The PlayStation 5 was the top-selling console but saw a 40% drop in sales compared to the previous year, and Xbox consoles experienced the most dramatic decline, with sales down 70%.
- Several factors contributed to this decline, including a shortage of exclusive games for the PlayStation, price increases for Xbox consoles, and potential economic challenges such as high consumer debt and inflation.
- Overall U.S. spending on video game hardware and software fell by 4% in November 2025, reaching record lows since records began in 1995.
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November 2025 Console Sales Plummet to Decades-Low Amid Decline in Physical Games and Dropping Demand for Major Brands
Console sales in the United States plummeted in November 2025, despite Black Friday, reaching levels not seen in decades. According to Circana, only 1.6 million consoles were sold in November 2025, a significant decrease from the 3.9 million sold in November 2019. This is the lowest November sales figure since November 1995, when 1.4 million consoles were sold. Consumer spending on consoles also declined sharply, dropping 27% year-over-year to $695 million, the lowest since 2005, when $455 million was spent. Sales of physical games also hit record lows, falling 14% compared to the previous year, marking the lowest value since sales records began in 1995. The PlayStation 5 was the top-selling console in the US, surpassing the Nintendo Switch 2, which had led since its launch in June. PS5 sales, however, also experienced a 40% drop compared to November 2024, while Nintendo Switch sales were 10% lower than Nintendo Switch 1 sales in November 2024. Xbox consoles experienced the most dramatic decline, with sales down 70% compared to the previous year. The overall decline in console sales also impacted the sales of gaming accessories, which fell by 13% compared to November 2024.
Decline in PlayStation Sales Persists amid Exclusive Titles Shortage and Economic Challenges
Several factors contributed to this decline, including a shortage of exclusive games and competition from the Xbox Series X and Nintendo Switch. Sony has stated its intention to focus on creating more exclusive titles to revitalize sales. Some experts suggest that PlayStation sales may continue to fall if the lack of exclusive titles is not addressed. Separately, Xbox increased console prices by over 30% year-over-year due to price hikes in September and May. As of December 2025, the Xbox Series S, the most affordable modern Xbox, costs $400, up from its original retail price of $300. Rising RAM costs, driven by the growth of generative AI, could lead to further price increases. The U.S. economy may also be a factor, with high consumer debt, inflation, a lack of new jobs, and a rising unemployment rate potentially impacting consumer spending. In terms of games, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 was the top-selling title in November, though its sales also experienced a double-digit percentage decline compared to the previous year. Overall U.S. spending on games fell by 4% to $5.9 billion, according to Circana.
Decline in U.S. Video Game Hardware and Software Sales Hits Record Low in November 2025
November 2025 represents the worst November for video game spending in the U.S. since 1995, with record lows in hardware dollar sales and physical software units.
In Case You Missed It
In an exciting turn of events, December has brought us not one but three major gaming updates! Firstly, Ubisoft has rolled out a PlayStation 5 patch for Tom Clancy’s The Division (2016), ten years after its initial release. This much-anticipated update, penned by Sophie Laurent and published just last month, breathes new life into the post-apocalyptic shooter with smooth 60 fps gameplay, faster combat response, and improved visuals, making it an ideal time to dive back into New York City’s snow-covered streets Nearly 10 Years Later, The Division Gets a PS5 Patch. Meanwhile, Marcus Thompson takes us behind the scenes with Bethesda as they finally break their silence on The Elder Scrolls 6. After seven long years since its initial announcement, this much-anticipated sequel is back in the spotlight with Angela Browder, Todd Howard, and Emil Pagliarulo sharing precious insights into the game’s development – so if you’re eager to hear about what’s in store for Tamriel’s future, don’t miss Marcus’ comprehensive report The Elder Scrolls 6 Officially Resumes Communications 7 Years After Announcement. Speaking of classic franchises getting fresh new looks, Carlos Mendoza’s latest piece on Players for Life promises just that with Crystal Dynamics’ upcoming Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis. Published just yesterday (December 17), his article dives into the game’s blend of nostalgia and modern gaming elements powered by Unreal Engine 5, slated for release in 2026 – this could be just the adventure you’ve been waiting for! Give it a read right here Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis Brings Modernity and Nostalgia.
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Links to external sources for further reading
- No, it's not just Xbox, ALL video game console sales are massively down year-over-year - and it's going to get worseNo, it's not just Xbox, ALL video game console sales are massively down year-over-year - and it's going to get worsewindowscentral.com
- The data behind the downturnThe data behind the downturnwindowscentral.com
- Down again.Down again.ign.com
- Hardware sales and physical game spending in the US just had the worst November in 30 yearsHardware sales and physical game spending in the US just had the worst November in 30 yearsvideogameschronicle.com
- Rising Prices Just Resulted In A 30-Year Low For Console Sales Across The BoardRising Prices Just Resulted In A 30-Year Low For Console Sales Across The Boardthegamer.com
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