The Rise of PCs Over Consoles: Finding the Silver Lining

PC gaming is making waves, as highlighted in a recent analysis by Mathew Ball. The numbers are compelling: Windows PCs now lead the way over consoles concerning game content investments. From 2011 onward, PC gaming funds jumped 65%, outpacing consoles by a whopping 225%. By 2024, PCs amassed an additional $30 billion, leaving consoles trailing with just an $18 billion boost.

I have a soft spot for consoles, believe me. I’ve probably had more consoles in my collection than most. My setup includes two Xbox Series X, an Xbox Series S, a PlayStation 5, and a Nintendo Switch. I realize some people might have even more console love than I do. I even know someone who buys new Xbox units as soon as his others hit capacity.

However, we really need to have a conversation about the current state of consoles. They’re not the absolute rulers they once were—and that’s perfectly fine. Consoles still hold a beloved spot for many, including myself, but there are reasons they’re falling behind other gaming platforms.

Back in 2004, consoles held a commanding 71% of the gaming market in terms of content spending, with PCs taking the remaining 29%. Fast forward to today, and PCs have taken over the majority with 53%, leaving consoles at 47%.

So, what’s driving this shift?

Beyond my anecdotes, Mathew Ball points to several growing benefits of PC gaming:

1. PCs boast a broader game library than any single console, if not all of them combined.
2. They allow multitasking, offering everything from YouTube, guide access, full Discord support, livestreaming with editing suites, and more.
3. PCs have a lower entry cost and offer high-end hardware options that outperform even top-tier consoles.
4. The number of game releases each year continually builds upon the expansive library PCs already offer.
5. Both PlayStation and Xbox exclusives have found their way to PC.
6. Premium Roblox games, interestingly, are only available for purchase on PCs.
7. Windows-based portable gaming devices are gaining traction, featuring entire PC game catalogs.

Did I read that right about Roblox? If you’re not quite up to speed on Roblox’s massive market presence, let me share a little story that might illuminate things.

Earlier this month, I got my very first library card. I’d heard that local libraries were lending out Switch games, so I thought I’d check it out while picking up a few books. As I wandered into the computer area, something caught my eye.

Half of the computers were occupied by kids engrossed in Roblox. Some played with friends, others solo—but the point was clear. There seemed to be a mini Roblox phenomenon happening right there in the library!

Roblox’s reach is only evident further. I remember the buzz Minecraft created in schools post-graduation, transforming into more than just a game. Now, Roblox and Fortnite have surpassed Minecraft in some crucial aspects.

Take, for example, yearly revenue. Roblox and Fortnite have both outperformed Minecraft there. Roblox even boasts a larger number of daily active users than Minecraft. I’m not throwing shade at Minecraft, just illustrating how formidable Roblox has become.

Yes, Roblox is also on consoles, but its full experience is on PC with exclusive game modes and superior creator tools. Plus, with any modest computer, like those available at libraries, entry costs are minimal.

Now, let’s delve into why PCs take the crown in game libraries. Not only do PCs offer more games, but often better versions too. Sure, you might find some poorly optimized PC ports or miss titles like Bloodborne, but where else can you play games such as Escape from Tarkov, League of Legends, Ready or Not, or Arma Reforger?

Even for games shared between PC and consoles, it’s not just about flashy graphics. Titles like Rust and DayZ are worlds apart on PC compared to their console editions. The PC version of Rust alone is leagues ahead, offering features like helicopters that consoles still miss.

Rust isn’t alone. Ark, DayZ, and PUBG also differ across platforms. However, having these games on consoles is a win for players, considering how laughable PC versions were years ago.

But let’s not count out consoles just yet. They’re evolving remarkably. Imagine if, back in 2014, you were told DayZ would make it to Xbox—it seemed impossible. Built on the Arma 3 engine, consoles supposedly couldn’t handle it. Yet, here we are, even allowing native keyboard and mouse support in games like Call of Duty—a wild concept for anyone who gamed in the ’90s.

Microsoft was smart to leap onto the PC bandwagon years ago, and now Sony is catching up. These companies saw something others didn’t, like the potential for Microsoft’s next Xbox to align more closely with PC architecture.

We’re seeing technological convergence between Xbox, PlayStation, and PC, blending features across platforms. Remember when Xbox achievements came to Games for Windows Live? Sony adopting trophy support was equally groundbreaking.

Today is shaped by past decisions intended to prepare us for tomorrow. Both Sony and Microsoft are progressively aligning their hardware and ecosystems for this forward-looking gaming landscape. Perhaps it’s time to look ahead and embrace the future, setting aside our nostalgia for what gaming used to be.