80% of Game Developers Shift Focus to PC, Leaving PS5 and Switch Behind

The 2025 State of the Game Industry report from GDC (Game Developers Conference) has shed light on some fascinating trends shaping the gaming world. Dive in to discover what's driving the industry forward!

The 2025 State of the Game Industry Report

80 Percent of Game Devs Are Making Games for PC

The latest GDC report, released on January 21, 2025, highlights a significant shift in game development focus. A whopping 80% of game developers are now channeling their efforts into creating games for PC, marking a 14% increase from the previous year's 66%. This trend could be influenced by the growing popularity of devices like Valve's Steam Deck, which, although not listed as a primary platform, was mentioned by 44% of developers under the 'Other' category.

PC has long been considered the "dominant platform" in gaming, a status that has only solidified over time. From 56% in 2020 to 66% in 2024, and now to 80% in 2025, the trend is clear. As more developers focus on PC, the platform's library is set to expand even further. However, the upcoming release of the Switch 2, with its enhanced graphics and performance, might slightly alter this trajectory.

One-Third of Triple A Devs Works On Live Service Games

The report also delves into the realm of live-service games, revealing that one-third (33%) of AAA developers are currently engaged in developing such titles. When expanded to all respondents, 16% are actively working on live-service games, with another 13% expressing interest. However, a significant 41% of developers are not interested in pursuing this model, citing concerns like declining player interest, creative stagnation, and the potential for burnout.

Developers who are keen on live-service games appreciate the financial and community-building benefits. Yet, GDC points out a critical issue: market oversaturation, which makes it challenging to maintain a sustainable player base. Ubisoft's recent decision to shut down XDefiant just six months post-launch underscores this challenge.

Some Devs Underrepresented in GDC’s State of the Game Industry

An article from PC Gamer on January 23, 2025, highlighted a notable underrepresentation of game developers from non-Western countries in the GDC report. Nearly 70% of the respondents hail from Western nations such as the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. Surprisingly, major gaming hubs like China and Japan are notably absent from the survey.

This skewed representation might influence the report's findings, potentially not fully capturing the global state of the game industry. As the industry continues to evolve, understanding these diverse perspectives will be crucial for a comprehensive view of gaming trends worldwide.