“New Release Count” On Switch Increased By 21% This Year
If you’ve been finding it challenging to stay updated with the multitude of game releases this year, you’re not alone. In fact, across all platforms, 2023 has witnessed a significant increase in the number of new game releases compared to the previous year.
Circana video game industry analyst Mat Piscatella recently shared intriguing data on social media, revealing that Switch “new release” games have seen a notable increase of +21% compared to 2022. PlayStation leads the charge with a 22% increase, while Xbox follows closely behind at 13%.
While many Switch owners are undoubtedly satisfied with the likes of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Nintendo has also treated players to titles such as Metroid Prime Remastered and Advance Wars 1+2 Re-Boot Camp this year, with more exciting releases like Pikmin 4 on the horizon.
The third-party space has also been buzzing with activity, as renowned franchises like Diablo and Street Fighter made their return in the past month, accompanied by new releases and reveals like Octopath Traveler II and Persona 5 Tactica.
Piscatella acknowledges the influence of the pandemic in this surge of game releases, attributing it to a buildup that is expected to gradually normalize and slow down as the industry cycle progresses.
A lot of new games, but lately I’m not feeling much hype… not sure if it’s me getting older or we need new gameplay concepts or something… even the bigger AAA titles are feeling like more of the “same old, same old" and whatever IS new feels either rushed/not finished or is lacking something…
Here’s hoping the industry will pick up around the winter holidays.