PwC has reported that the delay of Grand Theft Auto 6 will cost the US gaming market around $2.7 billion in 2025.
The highly anticipated title was expected to be a major driver of sales for both software and hardware, with forecasts showing it could generate $3 billion in revenue during its first year. Its absence is projected to reduce sales of PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S|X consoles by about 700,000 units.
Market Outlook Despite the Setback
Despite the financial hit from the GTA 6 delay, the US gaming market is expected to maintain steady growth in the long term. PwC estimated the market at $62.8 billion in 2024, up 3.6% from the previous year.
By 2029, the figure is forecasted to reach $87.4 billion, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8%. Analysts believe 2026 will see an especially strong rebound, with an 11.5% growth rate as GTA 6 launches alongside ongoing expansion in mobile and subscription gaming.
Mobile Gaming Dominates Growth
Mobile games continue to lead the industry, particularly in the social and casual segment. These titles, including popular hits such as Roblox, Candy Crush Saga, and MONOPOLY GO!, generated $37.5 billion in 2024, accounting for more than 60% of the market.
This figure is expected to rise to $57.2 billion by 2029, giving mobile games two-thirds of total revenue. Mobile in-game advertising is also expanding rapidly, with PwC projecting growth from $19.4 billion in 2024 to $35.2 billion by 2029, a CAGR of 12.7%.
PC and Console Trends
The US PC and console market remains a major player, valued at $23.1 billion in 2024 and projected to hit $27.7 billion by 2029. While console revenues dropped 3% in 2024 due to lower hardware sales, in-game transactions reached $11 billion, making up over 60% of console earnings.
On the PC side, revenue stood at $5.7 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow modestly to $6.6 billion by 2029. Digital sales and microtransactions dominate the segment, showing a clear shift from traditional boxed sales.
Subscriptions and Esports on the Rise
Subscription services are reshaping how players access games. With over 60 million subscribers across Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Plus, and Apple Arcade, revenues from subscriptions totaled $6.6 billion in 2024 and are set to reach $9.9 billion by 2029.
Esports, though smaller, continues to grow. The US market was valued at $523 million in 2024 and should climb to $689 million by 2029, with competition rights revenue surpassing sponsorships by 2028.
Conclusion
While the GTA 6 delay has created a temporary dip in 2025, PwC’s projections show the US gaming market will continue to expand. Mobile dominance, rising subscription models, and steady esports growth are expected to carry the industry forward until GTA 6 arrives to spark the next major surge.