Physical versus digital games: the French gamer in 2024

In brief

• 67% of French gamers prefer physical games over digital versions.
• That preference rises to 80% among local multiplayer players.
• In 2024, physical games accounted for 40% of console game revenue in France.

GAME-scanner analysis

Data from SELL, the French association of software publishers, shows that the preference for physical games in France is significant. With 67% of gamers choosing physical copies, nostalgia and the tactile appeal of physical media clearly remain strong. This is especially relevant for local multiplayer games, where the preference climbs to 80%. That may be tied to the social experience of playing together, with physical copies offering a more shared experience.

In 2024, 40% of console video game revenue in France came from physical sales. This highlights the continued relevance of physical games and the challenges facing digital platforms. Digital game sales fell by 13% in 2022, which may point to market saturation or a shift in gamer preferences. However, the exact reasons for the decline have not been fully examined, leaving room for further analysis.

What does this mean for players?

For gamers in France, this trend suggests they may place more value on the physical gaming experience. It could also influence how publishers market their products. With the ongoing preference for physical games, retailers may continue to focus on offering attractive physical editions of new releases, further intensifying competition with digital platforms. For publishers such as SELL, this means strategies may need to be reconsidered to better respond to these preferences.