Computer Game Publishing in the UK Industry Market Research Report Now Updated by IBISWorld

London, United Kingdom, Feb 05, 2013 (PRWeb.com via COMTEX) -- Computer games, or interactive entertainment as they have come to be known among industry players, are no longer the domain of teenagers and the socially awkward adult male. According to IBISWorld industry analyst Andrew Johnson, "games are now a common form of entertainment for about 45% of the population, although many of these are casual rather than regular gamers, with only one-third of the population comfortable with the label 'gamer'". Still, the number of people who play games has risen over the past five years to incorporate non-traditional markets. Women are now playing games more than ever, and mobile phone gaming has opened the door to a large market as well. User-friendly devices such as the iPad are encouraging older generations to take up gaming.

The effect of the recession on the Computer Game Publishing industry is expected to lead revenue to decrease at a compound annual rate of 1.9% over the five years through 2012-13. Retail sales of games plummeted in 2009-10, which flowed to publishers' revenue. Weak economic conditions led households to postpone expenditure on non-essential items and demand for games, particularly new ones, suffered. Publishers were also wary about funding new games during the recession, in case the demand was not there. This sluggishness continued in 2010-11 as bad economic news and subdued consumer spending took their toll on games retailers. The industry is expected to remain subdued in 2012-13, with revenue increasing by 1.0% to £840.9 million.

Industry revenue is forecast to pick up over the coming five years to 2017-18. Johnson adds, "pent-up demand from the recession will help this along and as next-generation consoles begin to hit the shelves from 2012-13, a wave of growth will develop for new games titles". However, publishers will face several structural issues. Delivering content directly to consoles via the internet will become more popular, while casual gaming via portable devices (especially mobile phones) will gain market share. Publishers will need to stay on top of these trends to remain competitive.

The Computer Game Publishing industry has a medium level of market share concentration with the top four companies accounting for just less than 50% of industry revenue in 2012-13. Major companies include Electronic Arts, Ubisoft Entertainment, Activision Blizzard and Microsoft.

For more information on the Computer Game Publishing industry, including latest industry trends, statistics, analysis and market share information, purchase the full report from IBISWorld, the nation's largest publisher of industry research.

IBISWorld industry Report Key Topics Companies in this industry publish video games for all platforms, including PC, Nintendo Wii, Xbox360, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, mobile phones, the iPad and online platforms. The industry does not include publishing of non-gaming computer software such as operating systems or game development.

Industry Performance Executive Summary Key External Drivers Current Performance Industry Outlook Industry Life Cycle Products & Markets Supply Chain Products & Services Major Markets Globalisation & Trade Business Locations Competitive Landscape Market Share Concentration Key Success Factors Cost Structure Benchmarks Barriers to Entry Major Companies Operating Conditions Capital Intensity Key Statistics Industry Data Annual Change Key Ratios About IBISWorld Recognised as the nation's most trusted independent source of industry and market research, IBISWorld offers a comprehensive database of unique information and analysis on many UK industries. With an extensive online portfolio, valued for its depth and scope, the company equips clients with the insight necessary to make better business decisions. Headquartered in London, IBISWorld serves a range of business, professional service and government organisations through more than 10 locations worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.ibisworld.co.uk or call (020) 3008 6568.

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