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Game Hardware Prices Soar, Sales Plummet This Holiday
18 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Average game hardware price increased to $439 in 2025.
- Overall hardware spending saw its lowest level since 2005.
- Xbox Series sales dropped 70% year-over-year.
The holiday season has brought unwelcome news for video game hardware sales, with prices escalating and sales reaching their worst point in decades. The average price of game hardware has surged to $439 in 2025, a significant increase from previous years. This price hike is a major factor in the overall decline in video game spending.
Hardware spending in November plummeted to $695 million, marking the lowest figure recorded since 2005. This decline is particularly notable given the usual Black Friday boost. Sales for major consoles reflect this downturn, with Xbox Series consoles experiencing a 70% year-over-year decrease and the PlayStation 5 seeing a 40% drop.
Experts predict that rising RAM costs will continue to drive up console prices into next year, suggesting little relief for consumers in 2026. Gamers looking to purchase hardware are advised to seek out holiday discounts, as prices are unlikely to decrease soon. The trend also impacts physical game media, which may become more readily available due to lower sales.
