Exclusive games are still the top reason for playing on console, survey suggests

May 2, 2026 - 21:18

A new survey from Circana suggests that exclusive games are still the biggest factor driving players to choose a console over a PC or mobile device, but the pull of those titles is not as strong as it was a year ago. The research, which tracks player behavior and preferences, found that while exclusive content remains the primary motivator for console ownership, the percentage of players citing it as their main reason has declined compared to 2023.

The data indicates a subtle shift in the gaming landscape. While blockbuster exclusives like "The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom" and "Marvel's Spider-Man 2" drove hardware sales in recent years, the current slate of announced games may not be generating the same level of urgency. Analysts suggest that the rise of high-quality PC ports, the expansion of subscription services, and a growing number of cross-platform releases are all contributing to the trend. Players are increasingly willing to wait for a game to arrive on their preferred platform rather than buying a new console just for one title.

The survey also highlighted that factors like performance, price, and the convenience of the living room experience are becoming more important to consumers. This does not mean exclusives are dead, but it suggests that console makers may need to rely on a broader value proposition to convince players to invest in their hardware. The report comes as both Sony and Microsoft prepare for a slower year of major first-party releases, raising questions about how they will maintain momentum.