US to spend $21.6 billion on games in 2011
Downloads, online and mobile will account for more than half
A new report has predicted that Americans will spend $21.6 billion on games this year.
Published by market research firm Newzoo, the report also points out that for the first time, games purchased on mobile phones and online will account for more than half of the impressive figure.
The report also reveals that the total spend is actually slightly lower than last year, but estimates 2012 will see another 3 per cent rise. Console gaming is down, while digital distribution, social and mobile gaming will all grow.
"We expect console game spending to seriously recover in 2012 pushing the overall market back to growth. But that year will also witness App Stores and Cloud Gaming making a serious attempt to conquer the living room TV screen," said Peter Warman, Newzoo CEO.
"A new battle for the biggest screen is about to begin and will involve all big names from the digital space as well as exciting newcomers."
The analysis is based on three years of research from the US National Gamers Surveys.
Newzoo is a games market research specialist, and its full report is available here.