PC gaming has increased in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a growth rate of 200% compared to the same period in 2019, according to market research firm NPD Group. In 2020, PC gaming hardware sales rose by 62%, reaching $4.5bn in revenue, and software sales grew by 21%, generating $5.5bn in revenue. Increased free time, the cancellation of events, and the availability of new games contributed to the rise in popularity. Experts predict that the trend will continue, with the adoption of 5G technology and cloud gaming making PC gaming more accessible and convenient.
PC Gaming Surged During Pandemic, with 200% Growth
Introduction
With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing people to stay at home and practice social distancing, many have resorted to gaming as a way to cope with the stress and anxiety brought about by the global crisis. Among the different gaming platforms, PC gaming has seen a surge in popularity over the past year, with a 200% growth rate compared to the same period in 2019.
The Numbers
According to market research firm NPD Group, PC gaming hardware sales increased by 62% in 2020, which translates to a total revenue of $4.5 billion. Meanwhile, software sales grew by 21%, equivalent to $5.5 billion in revenue. This is a significant increase compared to the previous year’s figures, which saw hardware sales rise by only 4% and software sales decreasing by 5%.
The Reasons
There are several factors that contributed to the surge in PC gaming during the pandemic. One is the increased amount of free time that people had due to lockdowns and work from home arrangements. Gaming has become a popular form of entertainment, and PC gaming offers a comprehensive experience that many gamers prefer.
Furthermore, the pandemic has led to the cancellation of many events and activities, including sports games, concerts, and movie screenings. With limited options for other forms of entertainment, people turned to gaming to fill the void.
Lastly, the availability of new and exciting games also contributed to the growth. Games such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Among Us gained massive popularity in the gaming community, driving sales of PC hardware and software.
The Future of PC Gaming
The pandemic may have sparked the growth of PC gaming, but the trend is expected to continue even after the crisis subsides. The convenience and flexibility of PC gaming make it a popular choice among gamers, and the continued development of new technology and games will only fuel its growth further.
Furthermore, the rise of cloud gaming and the adoption of 5G technology will make PC gaming more accessible and convenient to players, regardless of location and device. As such, experts predict that PC gaming will remain a dominant force in the gaming industry in the years to come.
Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the world in many ways, including the gaming industry. PC gaming has emerged as a popular form of entertainment, with a 200% growth rate during the pandemic. While the crisis may have been the catalyst for this growth, the future looks promising for PC gaming thanks to its convenience, flexibility, and the continued development of new technology and games.