Those pesky market analysts are at it again, this time proclaiming
figures that show a downturn in teen interest in video game consoles. In total, the groups involved in the survey took
information from around 3,000 students across at least 41 states. In terms of raw gamer numbers in the teen student
population, the report showed that: "79 percent of student households have at least one video game platform and 58
percent of students stated that they are occasional game players [play at least once a month]".
The report then goes on to say that "75 percent of teens say their interest in video games is declining and 78 percent indicated they spent less time playing in 2005." This is hardly surprising since pretty much the whole console industry is on a downturn as the next-generation of consoles start production. Microsoft has practically ceased acknowledging its Xbox console's existence in the run up to the Xbox 360's release in November. Similarly Sony and Nintendo are both focusing on their next-gen efforts.
Piper Jaffray and co. also took a look at where students shop for games. They found that Gamestop has 60 percent market share for pre-owned video games "and 29 percent market share for teen video game purchases." We're going to leave this report open to the Joystiq floor with two questions: do you find yourself less interested in your current consoles in the light of the next-gen console war? And where do you shop for games? Feedback from stroppy teenagers and seasoned gamers welcome.
[Thanks, Anon]
