The Japanese market is definitely different than the Western markets.
Console gaming hasn't been the core of the overall gaming market since somewhere between the 5th and 6th hardware generations. By the 7th generation, it was pretty apparent the market preferred portable gaming, even as dedicated handhelds were being supplanted by smartphones.
It appears that the only thing keeping dedicated gaming platforms alive in Japan is the deliberate attempt to keep most core franchises off mobile platforms, particularly by Nintendo. By the time that transition happens where portables may cease to exist (the success or failure of the Switch will be a strong indicator of future trends heading into the post 9th generation market), it won't be possible to track the relevance of gaming through hardware sales and retail game sales in Japan and increasingly difficult to track said sales in Western markets. The VGC model/formula for sales tracking as it currently exists will likely become obsolete, or at least a poor indicator for actual market performance, particularly in Japan.
Existing User Log In
New User Registration
Register for a free account to gain full access to the VGChartz Network and join our thriving community.
