MMORPG Gaming Market Size
| Study Period | 2019 - 2029 |
| Market Size (2024) | USD 25.34 Billion |
| Market Size (2029) | USD 42.22 Billion |
| CAGR (2024 - 2029) | 10.75 % |
| Fastest Growing Market | Latin America |
| Largest Market | Asia Pacific |
Major Players
*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
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MMORPG Gaming Market Analysis
The MMORPG Gaming Market size is estimated at USD 25.34 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 42.22 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 10.75% during the forecast period (2024-2029).
Technological advancements, such as enhanced graphics, more robust hardware, and faster internet speeds, are poised to bolster the MMORPG market. These upgrades promise an enriched gaming experience, ultimately driving higher player engagement and retention rates.
- The MMORPG games market is primarily propelled by a surge in technological advancements. Enhanced graphics and faster internet speeds are at the forefront, enriching the gaming experience and attracting a broader player base. Interactive gaming features are gaining traction, fostering community engagement and enhancing player loyalty.
- The rising popularity of e-sports and live-streaming platforms heightens visibility and interest. Ongoing revenue is fueled by subscription models and in-game purchases, incentivizing developers to maintain a focus on high-quality content. Moreover, as the global gaming audience expands, particularly in emerging markets, both the player base and market size are experiencing significant growth.
- MMORPGs create a distinct social environment, enabling players to engage and cooperate within a virtual realm. In a world growing ever more interconnected, MMORPGs serve as a hub for individuals to bond with similar gamers, fostering friendships and nurturing communities. This sense of fellowship and social engagement is a key draw for players, particularly those demanding connections and a community feel.
- MMORPGs commonly showcase elaborate progression systems, enabling players to elevate their character levels, obtain potent gear, and unveil fresh abilities. Players can benefit from the long-term progression and the sense of achievement it brings. Character development, the quest for rare items, and conquering obstacles offer players a fulfilling sense of achievement.
- With the global expansion of internet connectivity, an increasing number of individuals now have the ability to participate in online gaming. The increasing internet penetration, especially in emerging markets, broadens the player base potential for MMORPGs.
- For instance, as per the International Telecommunication Union, as of 2023, Europe boasted the world's highest internet penetration rate, with an overall percentage of 91%. Africa reported the world's lowest internet adoption, standing at a mere 37%. By the same year, the global internet user base tallied at around 4.9 billion individuals.
- The surge in e-sports, as well as competitive gaming, has bolstered the appeal of MMORPGs. MMORPGs that integrate competitive features, like player-versus-player combat and guild conflicts, draw in gamers keen on competition and eSports viewers. This symbiotic relationship between eSports and MMORPGs continues to drive the genre's popularity.
- Player retention and engagement are pivotal for MMORPGs, not just for maintaining their player base but also for revenue generation. However, sustaining long-term engagement poses challenges, with issues such as burnout, competition from new game releases, and evolving player tastes. When players disengage or shift to other titles, the repercussions can directly impede the growth trajectory of MMORPGs.
MMORPG Gaming Market Trends
Mobile Segment to Lead the Market
- With the increasing penetration of smartphones, more people have access to mobile devices capable of running MMORPG games. Smartphones have broadened the demographic of gamers, attracting even those without access to traditional gaming consoles or PCs. Their portability and accessibility allow players to immerse themselves in MMORPGs at any time and place, fueling market expansion.
- MMORPG gaming has proliferated in the past couple of years, especially on mobile platforms like smartphones and tablets. The surge in mobile-based gaming stems directly from recent technological leaps, notably in AR, VR, cloud gaming, and the advent of 5G. This trend underscores the industry's heavy reliance on advanced tech. Additionally, the market is witnessing a notable uptick in the hyper-casual game genre.
- With the global rollout of 5G and the introduction of unlimited data plans, cloud gaming is poised for significant success. This is especially true because of the growing number of gamers favoring mobile platforms. Furthermore, the ongoing expansion of 5G services and infrastructure investments play a pivotal role in bolstering this trend. According to Ericsson, it is anticipated that there will be around 5 billion 5G subscriptions worldwide by 2028, comprising 55% of all mobile subscriptions. Notably, the adoption curve for 5G is set to outpace that of its predecessor, 4G, with 5G expected to hit the 1 billion subscription mark two years earlier than 4G did post-launch.
- MMORPG games are increasingly available on the Android platform, poised to dominate the mobile gaming landscape in the coming years. Notably, users are showing a preference for paid MMORPG applications on Android. For instance, old-school RuneScape, an MMORPG on mobile, has garnered significant attention. Players can access the game by subscribing, with charges ranging from USD 10.99 monthly to USD 99.99 annually.
- Given the market potential, MMORPG game developers are increasingly launching their products on mobile platforms. For example, recently, Ashfall, a shooter MMORPG from NetEase, was released. Although smartphones offer a plethora of gaming options, their screen sizes often fall short of delivering a truly immersive gaming experience. In this scenario, gaming tablets are a favored choice among consumers seeking on-the-go gaming with the added benefit of a larger screen. While multiple gaming phones flood the market, tablets stand out with their larger screens, extended battery life, and superior processing capabilities, driving the market’s growth.
Asia-Pacific Expected to Witness Significant Growth Rates
- The Asia-Pacific region boasts a vibrant gaming culture marked by a longstanding passion for video games. The region's strong cultural ties to gaming have fostered a robust appetite for MMORPGs, bolstering their popularity among players deeply engaged in online multiplayer experiences.
- With populous countries like China and India, the Asia-Pacific region boasts a significant population, numbering in the billions. This vast demographic forms a robust foundation for MMORPG players, underpinning a market with immense potential. The sheer scale of potential players propels the growth of the MMORPG gaming market in this region.
- Asia-Pacific has witnessed a surge in mobile gaming. The widespread adoption of smartphones, bolstered by affordable data plans, has democratized mobile gaming. Additionally, the rising popularity of mobile MMORPGs, as developers tailor these games for mobile platforms, further fuels the market's expansion in the region.
- Moreover, the increasing adoption of 5G in the region is fuelling substantial growth in MMORPG games. Due to 5G's high-speed and low-latency connectivity, players are enjoying smoother, more immersive gameplay, leading to higher satisfaction and retention. The technology's real-time capabilities are especially vital for MMORPGs, elevating the overall multiplayer experience.
- With its higher data transfer rates, 5G enables more intricate game designs and enhances graphics. Given the region's strong affinity for mobile gaming, 5G's prowess is pivotal, making on-the-go gaming more appealing to a broader audience. According to Ericsson, it is anticipated that there will be around 1.8 billion 5G mobile subscriptions in North East Asia by 2028.
MMORPG Gaming Industry Overview
The MMORPG gaming market features a fragmented landscape with numerous global and regional players. These developers are increasingly channeling investments into research and development, aiming to introduce innovative solutions for gamers. Moreover, companies are forging strategic partnerships and adopting both organic and inorganic growth strategies to bolster their competitive positions.
- June 2024: Tencent's highly anticipated cross-platform game, Tarisland, has made its debut on iOS, Android, and PC. This fantasy offering, akin to popular theme park MMOs such as World of Warcraft, is free-to-play. Initially criticized for its pay-to-win dynamics, Tencent has responded by implementing significant adjustments.
- June 2024: Yaku Corp., the developers of the much-anticipated Web3 massively multiplayer online (MMO) game and cyberpunk metaverse, Yaku, unveiled a strategic alliance with Xai, a next-generation layer 3 blockchain platform tailored for gaming. This partnership is set to enhance Yaku's ability to provide its players with a smooth and scalable experience within the vast Yaku metaverse.
MMORPG Gaming Market Leaders
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Activision Blizzard, Inc.
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Electronic Arts Inc.
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Ubisoft Entertainment SA
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Nexon Co., Ltd.
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Tencent Holdings Limited
*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
MMORPG Gaming Market News
- June 2024: Immutable, a Web3 gaming platform, unveiled a pivotal partnership with MarbleX, the blockchain gaming arm of Netmarble. This strategic agreement is set to elevate the gaming landscape by transitioning MarbleX, along with its flagship IP titles, to the Immutable zkEVM chain. This blockchain platform, tailored for gamers, operates on Polygon's robust infrastructure.
- February 2024: Sequence unveiled a strategic partnership with Spellborne, a Web3 online role-playing game (MMORPG). Spellborne, recognizing players' demand for a seamless digital item management experience, opted to partner with Sequence Wallet as a Service (WaaS). This move allows players to conduct secure transactions without exiting the immersive in-game environment. Spellborne's world, known for its enchanting creatures and magical landscapes, is now further enhanced by this integration. This Sequence's debut partnership highlights its WaaS platform, presented in Spellborne's vintage pixel-art style, set in a Web3 world where players tame monsters.
MMORPG Gaming Market Report - Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
- 1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
- 1.2 Scope of the Study
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
4. MARKET INSIGHTS
- 4.1 Market Overview
- 4.2 Industry Value Chain Analysis
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4.3 Industry Attractiveness - Porter's Five Forces Analysis
- 4.3.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 4.3.2 Bargaining Power of Consumers
- 4.3.3 Threat of New Entrants
- 4.3.4 Threat of Substitute Products
- 4.3.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry
- 4.4 Assessment of COVID-19 Impact on the Market
5. MARKET DYNAMICS
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5.1 Market Drivers
- 5.1.1 Rising Smartphone and Internet Penetration among Developing Economies
- 5.1.2 Technological Advancement such as IoT, AR, and VR
- 5.1.3 Emergence of Gamification
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5.2 Market Challenges
- 5.2.1 Hardware and Connectivity Issues
- 5.2.2 Fraudulent Gaming Activities
6. MARKET SEGMENTATION
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6.1 By Gaming Platform
- 6.1.1 Mobile
- 6.1.2 Tablet
- 6.1.3 Gaming Console
- 6.1.4 PC
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6.2 By Geography***
- 6.2.1 North America
- 6.2.1.1 United States
- 6.2.1.2 Canada
- 6.2.2 Europe
- 6.2.2.1 United Kingdom
- 6.2.2.2 Germany
- 6.2.2.3 France
- 6.2.2.4 Italy
- 6.2.2.5 Russia
- 6.2.3 Asia
- 6.2.3.1 China
- 6.2.3.2 India
- 6.2.3.3 Japan
- 6.2.3.4 South Korea
- 6.2.4 Australia and New Zealand
- 6.2.5 Latin America
- 6.2.5.1 Brazil
- 6.2.5.2 Mexico
- 6.2.5.3 Argentina
- 6.2.6 Middle East and Africa
- 6.2.6.1 United Arab Emirates
- 6.2.6.2 Saudi Arabia
- 6.2.6.3 South Africa
7. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
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7.1 Company Profiles*
- 7.1.1 Activision Blizzard Inc.
- 7.1.2 Electronic Arts Inc.
- 7.1.3 Ubisoft Entertainment SA
- 7.1.4 NCSOFT Corporation
- 7.1.5 Giant Interactive Group Inc.
- 7.1.6 Tencent Holdings Limited
- 7.1.7 Amazon Game Studios
- 7.1.8 Nexon Co. Ltd
- 7.1.9 Jagex Limited
- 7.1.10 Bright Star Studios
- 7.1.11 Daybreak Game Company
- 7.1.12 CCP games UK Ltd
- 7.1.13 Neteasegames Inc.
- 7.1.14 Aeria Games
- 7.1.15 Gravity Corporation
8. INVESTMENT ANALYSIS
9. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE TRENDS
MMORPG Gaming Industry Segmentation
Massively multiplayer online role-playing gaming (MMORPG) can be defined as a genre of video games that combines elements of role-playing games (RPGs) and online multiplayer functionality. In MMORPGs, players assume the roles of characters within a virtual world, where they interact with many other players, often simultaneously, in a persistent online environment. The report tracks the adoption of different MMORPG games played through various gaming platforms such as mobile, tablet, gaming consoles, and PC. The study also focuses on the existing gaming developer landscape, which consists of major players operating in the market.
The MMORPG gaming market is segmented by gaming platform (mobile, tablet, gaming console, and PC) and geography (North America [United States and Canada], Europe [United Kingdom, Italy, France, Germany, Russia, and the Rest of Europe], Asia-Pacific [China, India, Japan, South Korea, and the Rest of Asia-Pacific], Latin America [Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and the Rest of Latin America], and Middle East and Africa [United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the Rest of Middle East and Africa]). The market sizes and forecasts are provided in terms of value (USD) for all the above segments.
| By Gaming Platform | Mobile | |
| Tablet | ||
| Gaming Console | ||
| PC | ||
| By Geography*** | North America | United States |
| Canada | ||
| By Geography*** | Europe | United Kingdom |
| Germany | ||
| France | ||
| Italy | ||
| Russia | ||
| By Geography*** | Asia | China |
| India | ||
| Japan | ||
| South Korea | ||
| By Geography*** | Australia and New Zealand | |
| Latin America | Brazil | |
| Mexico | ||
| Argentina | ||
| Middle East and Africa | United Arab Emirates | |
| Saudi Arabia | ||
| South Africa |
MMORPG Gaming Market Research FAQs
How big is the MMORPG Gaming Market?
The MMORPG Gaming Market size is expected to reach USD 25.34 billion in 2024 and grow at a CAGR of 10.75% to reach USD 42.22 billion by 2029.
What is the current MMORPG Gaming Market size?
In 2024, the MMORPG Gaming Market size is expected to reach USD 25.34 billion.
Who are the key players in MMORPG Gaming Market?
Activision Blizzard, Inc., Electronic Arts Inc., Ubisoft Entertainment SA, Nexon Co., Ltd. and Tencent Holdings Limited are the major companies operating in the MMORPG Gaming Market.
Which is the fastest growing region in MMORPG Gaming Market?
Latin America is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period (2024-2029).
Which region has the biggest share in MMORPG Gaming Market?
In 2024, the Asia Pacific accounts for the largest market share in MMORPG Gaming Market.
What years does this MMORPG Gaming Market cover, and what was the market size in 2023?
In 2023, the MMORPG Gaming Market size was estimated at USD 22.62 billion. The report covers the MMORPG Gaming Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023. The report also forecasts the MMORPG Gaming Market size for years: 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028 and 2029.
MMORPG Gaming Industry Report
Statistics for the 2024 MMORPG market share, size and revenue growth rate, created by Mordor Intelligence™ Industry Reports. MMORPG analysis includes a market forecast outlook to 2029 and historical overview. Get a sample of this industry analysis as a free report PDF download.
