http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5gnHqsUsye0fcVICC4DVKLE5K_T9g
Game Group has announced record sales and profit figures after new products such as Nintendo's Wii Fit helped to broaden the appeal of gaming.
The Basingstoke-based firm, which trades from 690 stores in the UK through its Game and Gamestation brands, said an "unprecedented" range of products attracted new customers from all generations.
It reported a 32% rise in turnover to £1.97 billion, while profits were up almost 75% at £119.6 million in the 53 weeks to January 31.
It said trading was ahead of expectations in the new financial year, although a strong release schedule last year meant like-for-like sales were down 6.3% in the 11 weeks.
Game has also benefited from the collapse of rivals, with both Woolworths and Zavvi going into administration and withdrawing from the high street.
The market is now in its third generation of hardware, comprising three consoles - Sony PS3, Microsoft Xbox360 and the Nintendo Wii - as well as two handhelds - Sony PSP and Nintendo DS.
Game said the installed console base of 22.5 million in the UK market was achieved in just over three years, compared with eight years to reach 17 million for the previous generation of consoles.
Over the course of the year the release of titles such as Grand Theft Auto IV and Call of Duty: World at War attracted the traditional gamer, while interactive family products such as Wii Fit and Guitar Hero also performed well.
Chairman Peter Lewis said: "The unprecedented range of products has broadened the demographic appeal of gaming, attracting new customers from all generations."
Game shares opened 8% higher following Wednesday's figures
