US consumer spending on video games is expected to rise 3% to $62.8 billion in 2026, according to data from Circana.
Last year, total US consumer spending on video game hardware, content, and accessories reached $60.7 billion – a 1.4% rise from 2024.
The data firm predicts that 2026 could surpass the all-time high of $61.7 billion set in 2021, with growth attributed to Nintendo Switch 2, Grand Theft Auto 6, and subscription-based content.
Circana forecasts that the Switch 2 will continue its successful sales momentum. Following its launch in June 2025, the console became the fastest-selling console in the US after seven months on the market.
However, the data firm notes that rising pressure from component costs could negatively impact hardware sales this year.
Steam Deck OLED stock has already been affected in some regions, and reports suggest Sony could delay the PlayStation 6 to 2028 or 2029 due to constraints on memory and storage availability.
As for software, Circana forecasts that Grand Theft Auto 6 will play a major role in driving sales across hardware, accessories, and subscriptions – an expected outcome given the title’s popularity.
Other highly anticipated games, including Resident Evil: Requiem, Pokémon: Pokopia, and Marvel’s Wolverine, are also expected to contribute substantially to revenue growth.
“The 2026 US video game market brings great opportunity – and risk,” said Circana’s Mat Piscatella.
“While overall hardware faces headwinds, a stellar slate of software and strong subscription engagement suggests a particularly exciting year.”
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