2024 was a pivotal year for the gaming world. With technological advancements, rising game demand, the rise of mobile platforms, and eSports becoming a global phenomenon, this year saw many notable developments in the gaming industry. The year showcased significant growth and diversity across the sector. Here are the key trends and figures that marked the gaming industry in 2024.

1. Mobile Gaming Market Grows by 20%

The mobile gaming sector experienced remarkable growth in 2024, with a 20% increase in the first quarter alone. This growth reflects how mobile gaming has evolved from just an entertainment option to a lifestyle for many players. The advancements in smartphones and tablets, improved game graphics, and enriched gaming experiences have led to greater engagement from players on mobile devices. Another key factor contributing to the rise of mobile gaming is the expanding markets in regions like Asia, Latin America, and Africa. As internet access and mobile devices become more widespread, the demand for mobile games has surged. Moreover, the success of freemium models (games that are free to play with optional in-game purchases) and low-budget games have made mobile games accessible to an even broader audience. Popular games like PUBG Mobile and Fortnite’s mobile versions have also played a key role in this trend, attracting millions of players worldwide.

2. 18,825 New Games Released on Steam

2024 marked a record year for the digital game distribution platform Steam, which saw the release of 18,825 new games. This represents a 31% increase compared to the previous year. The platform’s success can be attributed to its wide reach, accessibility, and its support for both major game studios and independent developers. Steam continues to be a hub for a vast range of games, from AAA titles to indie projects. One of Steam’s most compelling features is its openness to indie developers, allowing them to publish games and gain visibility alongside larger studios. This has contributed to a significant increase in the variety of games available to players. Additionally, Steam’s modding community, with tools like Steam Workshop, allows players to create and share custom content, extending the life and popularity of many games. These factors explain why Steam continues to dominate the digital game distribution market.

3. Gaming Industry Advertising Spending Increases by 10%

In 2024, advertising expenditures in the gaming industry grew by 10%. Games are no longer just a form of entertainment; they have become a significant part of the global marketing landscape. Game companies are now spending more to promote their titles across a variety of platforms, including social media, influencers, and digital advertisements. Influencer marketing, in particular, became one of the most widely used strategies for promoting games in 2024. YouTubers and Twitch streamers have become central figures in game promotion, with many games seeing a surge in popularity thanks to influencers. These types of campaigns have been particularly effective in reaching younger audiences. Furthermore, social media ads have also proven to be a valuable tool for driving interest in games, often resulting in higher in-game purchases and a more engaged player base. The increase in advertising spending not only helps game companies reach a broader audience but also drives up sales, turning video games into a substantial commercial product.

4. Global Gaming Industry Surpasses $240 Billion

2024 marked a historic year for the global gaming industry, surpassing $240 billion in revenue. This milestone highlights the extent to which gaming has become a dominant force, outpacing traditional entertainment sectors like film and music. The gaming industry, including video games, eSports, streaming, and in-game services, has become a massive economic entity. This growth can be attributed not only to the continued popularity of video games but also to the rise of eSports, gaming streams, and in-game purchases. eSports, in particular, has become a billiondollar industry, with sponsorship deals, advertising revenue, and tournament prizes contributing to its massive financial footprint. In addition, the sale of digital content, including in-game items and season passes, has allowed developers to generate significant ongoing revenue from players. This has ensured the long-term success of many games, as they remain popular with players long after their initial release.

5. Mobile Games Earn $92.6 Billion, Making Up 49% of the Market

Mobile games earned $92.6 billion in revenue in 2024, accounting for 49% of the total gaming market. This statistic underscores the enormous dominance of mobile gaming, which has surpassed both console and PC gaming in terms of revenue. Particularly in Asia, mobile gaming has become the goto form of entertainment for millions of people, with countries like China, Japan, and South Korea leading the way. The revenue growth in mobile gaming is not just about the popularity of games, but also about the growing market for in-game purchases, advertising, and microtransactions. Mobile games have become much more than simple time-killers; they now feature intricate gameplay, high-quality graphics, and even multiplayer experiences that rival traditional console and PC games. Additionally, the integration of new technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) has enhanced the gaming experience, attracting more players to mobile platforms.

Conclusion: The Gaming Industry is Expanding Rapidly

2024 was a groundbreaking year for the gaming industry. The rise of mobile games, the expanding role of digital distribution platforms, increased advertising spending, and the continued growth of the global gaming market all indicate that the gaming industry is not just thriving—it’s transforming. Games have become an essential part of the global entertainment landscape, not only as a source of leisure but also as a major economic driver. In the coming years, these trends are expected to accelerate, with new technologies continuing to shape the gaming experience. 2024 has proven that the gaming industry’s potential for growth is far from being fully realized, and the future of gaming promises even more exciting developments and opportunities for players and developers alike.

What Awaits the Gaming Industry in 2025?

As we move into 2025, the gaming industry continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace. After a record-breaking year in 2024, the trends and developments shaping the future of gaming are expected to become even more pronounced. With the rise of new technologies, expanding global markets, and increased investment in advertising and mobile gaming, 2025 promises to be another landmark year for the industry. Below are some key expectations for the gaming industry in 2025.

1. In-Game Advertising Spending to Reach $268.8 Billion

One of the most significant trends for 2025 is the continued growth of in-game advertising. It is projected that in-game advertising spending will reach a staggering $268.8 billion in 2025. This increase is driven by the growing demand for more immersive and interactive advertising experiences. As more players engage with free-to-play (F2P) games, in-game ads have become an essential revenue stream for developers. The integration of ads within gameplay—whether through billboards, branded items, or interactive ad experiences—is expected to become more seamless and less intrusive. With the rise of crossplatform gaming, advertisers will have more opportunities to reach global audiences, creating new revenue models for developers while offering brands a unique way to engage with players. In-game advertising is not limited to traditional games either. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are also expected to play a significant role, as these technologies open up new avenues for advertisers to create immersive and interactive experiences. This growing trend will likely drive even more investment into the sector, with both big brands and indie developers seeking ways to capitalize on in-game advertising’s potential.

2. Mobile Gaming Sector to Reach $94.9 Billion

Mobile games are now catering to a wide range of audiences, from hardcore gamers to casual players. The industry is seeing a growing trend of “games as a service,” where developers continuously update and expand games with new content, events, and in-game purchases. The success of titles like PUBG Mobile, Genshin Impact, and Call of Duty: Mobile has proven that mobile games can compete with console and PC games in terms of quality and player engagement. Additionally, mobile games are expected to continue incorporating new technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), which will further enhance gameplay experiences. With mobile devices becoming more powerful and versatile, developers will have even more tools to create immersive and innovative games.

3. Global Advertising Spending Expected to Increase by 7.2%

As the gaming industry continues to grow, global advertising spending is projected to increase by 7.2% in 2025. This increase will likely be fueled by the rising importance of digital and mobile advertising, as well as the growing influence of social media and streaming platforms in the gaming ecosystem. In 2025, advertisers will continue to focus on leveraging influencers, live streams, and social media platforms to reach gaming audiences. With platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and TikTok playing an increasingly important role in game promotion, advertisers will invest more in targeting younger, techsavvy consumers who are highly engaged with gaming content. Brands will also seek to create more authentic and personalized experiences by integrating themselves into games and streams rather than relying on traditional forms of advertising. As the gaming community continues to grow, so will its commercial value. This will present opportunities for both large corporations and indie developers to tap into a highly engaged audience. Advertising in games, through sponsorships, in-game brand integrations, and live events, will likely become a multi-billion-dollar industry that shapes the future of game development.

Conclusion: 2025 and Beyond

The gaming industry is poised for even more innovation and growth in 2025. With in-game advertising reaching new heights, mobile gaming becoming a $94.9 billion industry, and global advertising spending continuing to rise, the future of gaming looks bright. The increasing integration of new technologies, such as VR, AR, and advanced AI, will drive game development forward, while the expanding mobile and digital markets will bring new opportunities for developers and advertisers alike. In 2025, the gaming industry will likely continue to blur the lines between entertainment, advertising, and social interaction. With gaming becoming an integral part of daily life for millions of people around the world, the possibilities for what lies ahead are virtually limitless.