US game sales down 11% in November despite Call of Duty

While Call of Duty: Black Ops II stormed out of the gate with $500 million generated in 24 hours, and Halo 4 produced $220 million on its first day, The NPD Group's just released November report does not bode well for the holiday season in the US.

Following a miserable October, the all-important fourth quarter continued to exhibit double-digit declines, as total industry sales dropped 11 percent to $2.55 billion in November. Total software sales (including PC) fell 11 percent to $1.46 billion, while hardware dipped 13 percent to $838.9 million. Accessories were down 8 percent as well, totaling $280.9 million.

[Dlacy13g]

Given the 360 and PS3 are hitting yrs 7 & 6 respectively...and the Wii is officially last gen for Nintendo now...and the WiiU had "limited" supplies in November, I really didn't expect a different outcome. I actually am surprised its only down 11%.

[thorstein]

Not only that, but I still don't think there is anything to worry about when the industry does 2.55 Billion in one month. That is insane!

[thorstein]

Now wait a minute. I just read on Gradar that Black Ops 2 hit $1 Billion since release. Then I came back here and low and behold... gamesindustry.biz... these guys know nothing about gaming or the industry. These are the same mooks as industrygamers. Lulz.

[Brian1rr]

Consoles are far from dead. Hopefully next gen games won't be $60 at launch cause I just can't afford AC3, Black ops, hitman and Far cry 3 in one month

[FarCryLover182]

That's why you wait until month two when they are $25 or so on sale.

[medziarz]

~ 15% average drop in sales is no decline just change in the industry - it can't grow forever you know, hardcore consoles did a very good job picking up the revenue the falling Wii left behind

[Hicken]

It's funny how people ignore all the other economic goings-on in the world and treat gaming like it's the ONLY thing that's down.

Compared to a lot of other industries, gaming is doing QUITE well.