Japan Gaming Market Outlook (2018 to 2032)

Market Dynamics

The Japan gaming market is one of the world's leading and most coveted markets, and companies continue to try and unlock its potential. Despite some initial hesitance to fully support mobile and online gaming, the Japanese government has taken many steps to support the gaming sector. There has been a shift in mindset since the introduction of the Cool Japan Strategy in 2015, allowing foreign investors to directly benefit from investment in the Japanese gaming industry. As of 2018, large console and digital titles continue to be the primary source of budget spending for the Japanese gaming industry. Large titles such as Monster Hunter World (Capcom) and Super Mario Odyssey (Nintendo) continue to draw in large audiences, while mobile gaming is still steadily increasing its user base. Domestic mobile developers have been at the forefront of this increased demand, providing innovative titles such as Granblue Fantasy (Cygames) and Girls' Frontline (Sunborn Interactive Technology). Furthermore, the expansion of eSports events, such as the Japan eSports Union's Gate of the Future league, is helping to expand the appeal of gaming to a wider audience.The future outlook is expected to be bright for the gaming market in Japan.

With the increasing support by the government towards gaming projects, and the potential of PUBG, Japan is expected to become a matured gaming market. Beyond the large console and mobile titles, the Japan gaming market will also explore other methods of gaming, such as virtual reality, which may be implemented by the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics. With both the government and private companies investing in infrastructure, Japan hopes to have the necessary groundwork for the upcoming wave of gaming experiences.In terms of fiscal prospects, the Japan gaming market is estimated to grow at a moderate rate in the coming years, reaching an estimated value in 2032 of 4.85 trillion yen, approximately 25% more than the estimated value of 2018. The rise in digital-based games, an increase in the number of eSports events, and the potential for virtual reality games are only some of the factors that may contribute to this positive outlook.In conclusion, the future outlook for the gaming market in Japan is looking relatively positive.

With the continuous support from the government and private companies, as well as innovative titles from both Japanese developers and international companies, the Japan gaming market is expected to remain a leader in the industry. With the spread of eSports and virtual reality titles, it is possible that Japan will be a leader in the gaming industry in the years to come.

Research Methodology

Figures reflect Wantstats’ original market research and forecasting models, compiled as part of the Wantstats research archive and published in 2023.