In November 2025, video game console sales in the US faced a dismal reality, marking one of the worst months on record. A mere 1.6 million consoles were sold during a time traditionally bustling with holiday shoppers and Black Friday deals. What caused this eerie lull in excitement? The answer lies in escalating console prices that left many gamers feeling the pinch.
The average price for a console soared to $439, the highest on record. This surge can be traced back to several factors, including tariff hikes and rising RAM costs, leaving many potential buyers shaking their heads. It’s tough out there for gamers hoping to snag the latest tech at an affordable price.
As the chart reveals, the pattern of rising average selling prices is alarming, reflecting a broader trend in the market. Mat Piscatella from Circana aptly noted that correlation does not necessarily imply causation—unless it clearly does. When you look back to 2019, wherein the average console price was a mere $235, it’s troubling to see sales dip from 3.9 million consoles back then to this year’s unfortunate figures.
What’s even more staggering is that despite the bleak sales, the base model of the PS5 retails for $449, while the Xbox Series X sits at $599. The newly launched Nintendo Switch 2 priced at $449 now represents the market’s average. If gaming is your passion, you might need to adjust your budget accordingly.
This November saw video game hardware spending drop by 27 percent compared to the previous year, while accessory sales also fell by 14 percent. To add insult to injury, the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto 6 has been delayed, now set to release on November 19, 2026, leaving fans longing for something to dive into. Could this turn the tide for hardware sales? Let’s hope so.
Why did console prices rise in 2025?
Console prices spiked in 2025 due to factors like US tariffs and increased component costs, especially RAM, pushing the average cost to an all-time high.
How did console sales in November 2025 compare to previous years?
This November saw only 1.6 million consoles sold, a stark drop from previous years when sales typically soared due to holiday shopping.
What are the current prices for major gaming consoles?
The PS5 base model costs $449, the Xbox Series X is priced at $599, and the Nintendo Switch 2 holds an MSRP of $449.
How much did gaming hardware spending decline in 2025?
Year-over-year, gaming hardware spending decreased by 27 percent, highlighting the tough market conditions.
When is the next major game release?
The next big game release is Grand Theft Auto 6, scheduled for November 19, 2026, which many hope will reinvigorate console sales.
Despite the challenges, the gaming world is always evolving. As we await new releases and price adjustments, it’s an exciting time to be a gamer. What console are you hoping to get your hands on? Let us know in the comments below!