Video games—once a niche hobby in dim arcades, and now a multi-million-dollar industry with billions of players around the world and an ever-evolving market.
Players can pick up a controller and enjoy a getaway into whatever realm they choose, be it the fantasy world of Dragon Age: Inquisition, the combat of God of War, the horror-action of The Last of Us, or the treasure hunting of Uncharted: A Thief’s End.
Gamers of all ages and backgrounds are able to relish the graphics, intuitive gameplay, and thrilling narratives that make video games so beloved.
In determining rates of income and the highest-grossing producers, we need to uncover some details about the history of video games, the various aspects that go into revenue, and the top titles that we all know and love.
These days, the gaming industry is no longer a sequestered sector, only appropriate for gamers of particular ages or backgrounds.
In other words, gaming no longer belongs to the “nerds”—from consoles to mobile phone games, it has become an accessible source of entertainment for players of all ages and experience levels.
But to properly examine just how much profit the most popular video game companies earn, we need to take a look at the origins of the video gaming industry, and the changes that brought us to this point.
The Early Days
Video gaming in its proper form was introduced in the 1970s and has been in constant evolution ever since.
Beginning as a niche hobby
First commercially successful video game
However, the very first step into home video game consoles was with a beige-tinted, vacuum tube circuit able to be connected to your TV set and controlled by two users with cubes that chased each other around the TV screen.
released as the Magnavox Odyssey system.
This first console could be programmed for playing several games, including checkers, ping pong, and even target shooting and golf putting with special technologically advanced accessories.
Suddenly, people no longer had to gather up quarters and head to the local arcade for an afternoon of fun—home gaming had been born! But regrettably, due to bad marketing and the novelty of the idea, this console was discontinued in 1975. However, this still marked the beginnings of the digital gaming industry we know today.
Who’s on First?
Though the Magnavox Odyssey was the first true home console, the godfather of gaming is widely considered to be Atari inc. This company was the first to set a standard for what large-scale gaming could really look like. Atari’s new game Pong began to appear in arcades, and also in shopping centers and bowling alleys everywhere, creating an ever-expanding market for eager players.
1978 was also the genesis of the first “multiplayer” game—previously, players could compete for the highest scores in games, but only one player could participate at a time on the shared screen.
This all changed when Empire hit the stacks in 1973: the first true multiplayer game, using strategic, turn-based gaming for up to 8 players, quite like the way tabletop RPGs are run.
Home Sweet Home
Though gaming was a popular hobby for young people and those who competed in arcade settings for the highest scores, the gaming industry was still far from the behemoth it is today. Indeed, at-home gaming was barely considered a possibility. But that would soon change.
With the creation of personal computers, gaming consoles finally became a mass-production reality.
Intel’s first microprocessor chip was used in games like Gunfight, which was the first of its kind in multiplayer shooter gameplay.
Gunfight walked so that Call of Duty could run—and dodge, and roll, and snipe. It was also the first game to use one joystick for movement and the other for viewing/shooting direction, mechanics that were completely new to gaming and excited players.
A marriage between Intel’s microprocessor chips and Atari’s new VCS 2600 console with an external ROM game cartridge slot led to the advent of the most popular of early gaming consoles—complete with a new game, Space Invaders, in 1980.
A game that many still recognize today, this release heralded a new era of video gaming, and Atari enjoyed a massive increase in sales profits.
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And, as it tends to do, the magazine and journalistic world was quick to catch up to this new industry and the gaming community that was emerging alongside it.
Hobby magazines emerged in the early 1980s to enthuse and connect gamers, including Creative Computing, Computer and Video Games, and Computer Gaming World. These publications served as the building blocks for today’s video gaming literature, including PC Gamer, Edge Magazine, and Electronic Gaming Monthly.
The Next Big Thing
As personal computers became more prevalent in home settings, the gaming industry threw everything it had into creating new titles and technology.
However, in some cases, this meant that the market was inundated with too many mediocre games, which caused some lulls in the industry and losses in revenue. It was clear that gaming needed another change.
With early computers like Apple’s Macintosh, users became able to connect their Atari console devices via MIDI-OUT ports on the computer.
Though these multiplayer connectable games did experience quite a bit of lagging, these console connections also sparked the idea of a “deathmatch” gaming experience.
This was only heightened when network-based multiplayer gaming was finally introduced in 1993, with Pathway to Darkness and the “LAN Party” system, as well as Doom—a game franchise still popular today.
Two subsequent releases for Macintosh, Marathon in 1994 and Quake in 1996, rocketed party line multiplayer gaming even further into popularity, and when the Windows 95 operating system release coincided with easy and budget-friendly Ethernet cards, even more multiplayer games appeared.
Into the Internet
Though big video gaming companies such as Atari, Nintendo, and Sega all made attempts in the 1990s to adapt the internet for online gaming through cable providers, the internet of the day was still too lows and issues were rife.
Release of Sega’s Dreamcast internet-ready console
But with the release of Sega’s Dreamcast internet-ready console in 2000, online gaming became an open world—with embedded modem and browser, the internet was a core part of this console’s basic functions instead of being a plug-in.
And though the Dreamcast console did turn out to be a failure, mainly due to the high costs of internet usage at the time, it paved the way for the Xbox and PS4.
Xbox 360 console was released
By the time the Xbox 360 console was released in 2005, online and multiplayer gaming was the new normal. This included “deathmatch” games such as Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare and other such titles.
Becoming known as MMORPGs, or massively multiplayer online role-playing games, they were popular with millions of gamers worldwide, with the internet allowing players to connect in droves.
And as we come to the modern era of video gaming, the integration of internet services into just about every aspect of life also includes consoles. New Xbox, PS4, and Nintendo Switch consoles are in most homes, and each wave of new generation games has faster processors and more impressive graphics than the last.
And speaking of popular video games, what are the best-selling titles in the industry? Let’s take a look at the top titles and studios in video game entertainment next.
The following are the top gaming companies in the industry. And as can be seen in the later exploration of the highest-grossing and best-selling game titles, these companies are kings in the world of video gaming, including:
After a brief discussion of the projects these game studios have produced to critical and commercial acclaim, we will return to the companies for a breakdown of their profitability and just how much revenue the top video gaming companies in the world make.
Not only are these titles the highest-grossing video game franchises of all time, but also individual games that have become best-sellers. Let’s explore some of the top titles and franchises in the entire video game industry, and which companies they belong to.
The 18 Bestselling Single
Video Games of All Time
Microsoft
2011
The iconic title that was created by a subsidiary of Microsoft, Minecraft continues to be the best-selling video game of all time. Deceptively simplistic looking, players have an infinite terrain to mine and harvest for resources to create their worlds. You can craft tools and weapons, fight off monsters, and cultivate your own realm in either single-player or multiplayer sandbox mode.
Rockstar Games
2013
This installment in the GTA franchise has sold more than the others combined since its release. Players have enjoyed dabbling in the criminal underworld and attempting nearly impossible tasks, all while not getting caught. Rockstar continues to update the online version of the game as well, meaning that it has been sold over 140 million times worldwide.
Nintendo
2006
The original Wii sporting game that was bundled with the launch of the Wii console, this classic simulation game uses the Wii Remote to imitate arm movements. Players can play a variety of sports, including baseball, golf, and tennis. This title was sold over 83 million times.
PUGB Corporation
2017
Also known as PUBG, this game is an online multiplayer Battle Royale for 100 players to strategize and survive to the end—the last one standing wins! This title took the gaming world by storm, selling over 70 million copies since its release.
Nintendo
1985
The very first title in the classic Super Mario video game franchise, this story is beloved by players around the world. Plumber Mario and his band of cohorts must leap through obstacles and circumvent dangers in order to save the Princess who is held captive by the evil Bowser. This game has sold over 40 million copies globally!
Valve
2012
The first of the Counterstrike games to be released for the Xbox 360, Counterstrike: Global Offensive was heralded as a new type of tactical first-person shooter with multiplayer capacity. Players fight in teams and enjoy military missions that require strategy and teamwork. This title sold around 40 million copies worldwide.
Nintendo
2008
Originally released as the sixth chapter in the Mario go-kart racing series, Mario Kart Wii was an instant success for players. This version gave gamers 16 more courses to race across, and the ability to choose motorbikes to ride along with the classic cars. It was sold 37 million times.
Rockstar Games
2018
A title that was highly anticipated and with the sales numbers to match, Red Dead Redemption II follows a band of outlaws on the run from the law, during the waning days of the Wild West. The main character Arthur Morgan was immediately beloved by players for his gruff gallantry and dialogue. With critical and commercial acclaim, this game has been sold over 36 million times around the world.
Nintendo
2017
In the latest edition of the incredibly popular Mario go-kart racing games, gamers immediately loved the difficult courses and wide array of playable characters in this edition of Mario Kart 8 and the further Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. It has also been sold more than 33 million times.
Nintendo
2009
A simulation game that places gamers in a resort that has plenty of sports to choose from, this game is one of the most popular in the entire Wii gaming franchise. Due in part to it being bundled with later generations of the Wii console itself, Wii Sports Resort has been sold a total of 33 million times.
Nintendo
1998
One of the most well-known, and actually the highest-grossing game franchise of all time, Pokémon began its reign over video gamers when Nintendo brought the Red and Blue versions of the original game to the United States. The Green version had already gained popularity in Japan in 1996, and American audiences also loved it – Pokémon has hatched role-playing franchises, comics, and over 120 different Pokémon titles in all different genres. It has sold over 31 million times around the world.
Nintendo
2020
Due partly to the original isolation experienced by gamers during the Covid-19 crisis, Animal Crossing shot to immediate popularity when it was released in March 2020. Players could create their own island lifestyle, complete with crafting, fishing, and furry friends that visited and sometimes even set up shop if your island was habitable enough! This title sold 31 million copies worldwide.
Nintendo
1998
The beloved Italian plumber character with his cast of friends and helpers has long captured the hearts of gamers around the world. And when this version of 80 levels to fight through in order to save Princess Peach was released, gamers wholeheartedly embraced the graphics that enhanced the 2D side-scrolling gameplay, purchasing this title a total of 31 million times.
Nintendo
1989
One of the original titles in the litany of early video and arcade games, Tetris was first introduced in 1989 and experienced many spin-offs and reboots. But the original Tetris game continues to be among the most popular today as a gentle, tile-matching adventure. This title has been sold around 30 million times.
Activision Blizzard
2019
With the entire Call of Duty franchise being one of the highest-grossing in video game history, as we will see later, Modern Warfare was a spinoff edition that provides players with new multiplayer functions, maps, and other update patches. Follow the story of U.S. and British secret agents who must go undercover as special forces to defend an invaded country. It has been sold over 30 million times.
Activision Blizzard
2015
Diablo III and its expansion further explore the battle throes of good and evil. With a variety of playable characters, gamers must fight to dethrone the Lord of Terror, Diablo himself. This game has been sold worldwide 30 million times.
Bethesda Softworks
2011
An absolute classic in the world of RPG and open-world gaming, Skyrim is the fifth chapter in the Elder Scrolls series of single-player, action games. Controlling your customizable main character who is a Dragonborn, the world of Tamriel is yours to explore and conquer. This title has been sold 30 million times worldwide over a variety of consoles.
CD Projekt Red
2015
A game that truly took the entire video game community by surprise, this incredible title was based on a European book series of the same name. The game’s open world, fascinating characters, and intricate quests won over gamers everywhere, as did the surly main character. It has been sold over 28.3 million times.
The 26 Highest-Grossing Video
Game Franchises of All Time
Created by Nintendo, this franchise takes its place as the highest earner in the video game industry, with a total worth of $90 billion. Since it came out in 1996, players have found enjoyment in capturing digital creatures and filling out Pokédexes.
Another Nintendo offering, first appearing in 1981, the adventures of this Italian plumber and his associates have enchanted gamers for decades. Mario is worth around $30.250 billion today.
Activision Blizzard is responsible for producing this titan of a series in 2003, with players around the world enjoying the multiplayer functions and internet competition side of the shooter. With zombie DLCs and WWII additions, you can choose your battle carefully. The franchise is worth $17 billion and counting.
With a wide variety of titles, including Wii Sports, this game series and devoted console have been a popular addition to in-home gaming setups since 2006 when it first appeared. Brought to you by Nintendo, the Wii franchise is worth $14.808 billion.
One of the original arcade games, Pac-Man has been a hit since 1980 when Bandai Namco first introduced it to early gamers. Since then, this franchise has continued to be popular with handheld gamers and PC alike, totaling $14.107 billion in revenue.
Another in the original litany of early games, Square Enix’s 1978 Space Invaders franchise is one of the most beloved and nostalgic titles in the gaming world. So, $13.930 billion in profits is no surprise!
A sword-wielding and wild hairstyle-sporting saga of friendship and loyalty, Square Enix’s Final Fantasy began in 1987 and continues to this day, offering gamers a plethora of titles and characters to choose from. In all, the Final Fantasy saga is worth $10.656 billion.
Activision Blizzard’s seminal title was first established in 1994 and has continued to be one of the most popular games today. With mobile games, PC platforms, and even a tabletop RPG, World of Warcraft has an incredible player base and has brought in around $10.627 billion.
Implemented by video game studio Tencent Games in 2007, CrossFire has enjoyed widespread popularity and gaming profile around the world. This has led to the franchise being worth $10.6 billion.
Electronic Arts first brought these titles into the gaming sector in 1993, and they have been popular sports simulators ever since, earning $10.189 billion in profits.
A game that seems to spark the occasional controversy, the Grand Theft Auto franchise is still one of the most beloved series and has an almost cult-classic status among gamers. This franchise is worth around $9.391 billion.
Tencent and Riot Games brought this series out in 2009, leading to another addition to widely popular turn-based fantasy gaming for all. This entire franchise has brought in around $8.398 billion.
In quite the same vein as the king of these games, the Pokémon franchise, the Digimon series is produced by Bandai Namco and first appeared in 1997. It is worth $6.358 billion.
Another title by Tencent Games in 2015, this franchise is primarily focused on online and mobile phone gamers. This series earns around $6.388 billion.
Sega’s favorite blue main character sprinted into popularity in 1991 and has enjoyed continued popularity ever since, ending in about $6.228 billion in terms of profits.
Brought out by Square Enix in 1986, Dragon Quest was one of the original fantasy world video games for players to enjoy. This has led to many faithful players and a profit of $6.015 billion.
Bandai Namco’s original 1986 game introduced this world of sword flurry and rune-casting, and the saga has continued with an estimated $5.585 billion in revenue.
Microsoft’s other seminal title apart from Minecraft, the Halo universe has an entire wide body of work behind it in terms of lore and backstory. This has brought so many users into the Halo realm and produced a large fanbase that contributed to the franchise’s profits of $5 billion.
An absolute classic video game series by Ubisoft, the Assassin’s Creed franchise is one of the most beloved by gamers and fans alike. With a universe that stretches across different historical time periods, questlines, and characters, this franchise has brought in a sizeable $4.091 billion.
Originally released in 1988, this Electronic Arts sports series has allowed gamers to enter the world of the NFL and kick the pigskin around themselves. Madden NFL games have earned $4 billion in total.
Sony’s 1997 classic, this racing franchise has been popular since the first installment and has brought in $4 billion in profits.
One of the top titles in Nintendo’s history, the Zelda games have brought players around the world so much enjoyment and magic since the first one of the series came out in 1986. The Legend of Zelda franchise has made around $3.436 billion.
Another in the litany of classic video game series, this adventure and survival game is beloved by action and narrative lovers alike. The Tomb Raider franchise has managed to bring in about $3.122 billion in revenue.
Nintendo’s Super Smash Bros. franchise has continued to be one of the bestselling series in all of video game history since the first title came out in 1999. With all the popularity of the Smash Brothers and their antics, this series has been quite profitable to the tune of $3.054 billion.
One more addition to the list of combat and shooter games, this series from Electronic Arts is incredibly popular, bringing in about $2.740 billion since it was first introduced in 2002.
One of the most popular games in recent years, this Epic Games franchise sparked a global frenzy and many lasting trends when it first came out in 2017. It also remains one of the most profitable gaming competition titles, where professional players can win large cash prizes for being the last one standing in Fortnite. It has earned $2.489 billion in profits since being introduced.
After exploring the origins of the video game industry, the major production studios, and some of the blockbuster titles and franchises that have appeared on the market, we can investigate the profitability of the entire sector. According to sources on the internet about the latest fiscal years of the top video game companies, the following calculations are their earnings in order:
annually $18.19 billion
per second $576.41
Sony, the owner of the PlayStation console and some individual titles like God of War and Marvel’s Spider-Man, is one of the giants of entertainment. Sony made $18.19 billion in USD, or a staggering $576.41 per second, from their video game holdings alone.
annually $16.224 billion
per second $514.12
Tencent Games is known for League of Legends and Arena of Valor, holding second place in terms of how much profit it earns from such video game titles—$16.224 billion annually or $514.12 per second.
annually $12.010 billion
per second $380.58
Between Nintendo’s many popular Mario game titles and its main consoles, the company reported a revenue of $12.010 billion, or $380.58 in earnings every second.
annually $11.6 billion
per second $367.59
Microsoft is responsible for the Xbox console and Minecraft, coming in at $11.6 billion annually. That’s $367.59 per second.
annually $8.1 billion
per second $256.68
The company behind Call of Duty, Activision Blizzard recorded a total of $8.1 billion last year, earning just over $256.68 a second.
annually $5.537 billion
per second $175.46
According to the latest records, at $5.537 billion annually, FIFA and Madden NFL’s Electronic Arts makes exactly $175.46 each second.
annually $4.8 billion
per second $133.09
Epic Games is worth revenue of $4.8 billion—earning $133.09 per second, primarily from its Fortnite franchise titles.
annually $3.018 billion
per second $95.64
The originator of Pac-Man and Digimon, Bandai Namco obtained $3.018 billion last year, with per-second profits of $95.64.
annually $2.386 billion
per second $75.61
Square Enix is the company that created Tomb Raider and has collected a total of $2.386 billion annually, which breaks down to $75.61 per second.
annually $1.446 billion
per second $45.82
Over the past year, Assassin’s Creed producer Ubisoft earned $1.446 billion or $45.82, placing the company at the bottom of the scale.
As technology and user demands have progressed over the years, video game production has become more and more complex, with the costs rising as well.
But because the reach of video gaming is so wide and enjoys such a loyal fan base of players ready to purchase the next big title, the industry is also one of the most lucrative sectors in the world of entertainment today.
Video gaming attracts over 2 billion gamers across the globe, so it’s no wonder that video game companies have some of the highest profitability rates. This impressive income allows for further production of the next and newest RPGs, Battle Royale games, or platformers that gamers the world over wait to download with bated breath.
- How popular has the video game industry become?
- What were the first arcade games ever?
- What was the first video game console?
- When was multiplayer gaming invented?
- Are there video game magazines?
- When did video games enter into the internet?
- What was the first internet video game console?
- What are the top gaming companies in the world?
- What are the best-selling video games of all time?
- What are the highest grossing video game franchises of all time?
- How much do video game companies make?
- How many video game players are in the world?
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