According to the International Development Group (IDG), video games aren’t as widely accepted in Europe as they are in other parts of the world (namely the US).
They claim that the value of the European market comes in at £8 billion, compared to that of the £9.4 billion the US is worth – an anomaly given the population is twice the size. Apparently the European market prefers so-called “Casual” games, at odds to the “hardcore” market in the US.
IDG looked at the best selling games across Europe and compiled the following list, based on 2007 figures.
1. Dr. Kawashimas’ Brain Training, Nintendo
2. FIFA 2008, EA
3. Wii Play, Nintendo
4. Pro Evolution Soccer 2008, Konami
5. New Super Mario Bros., Nintendo
6. Need for Speed Pro Street, EA
7. Assassin’s Creed, Ubisoft
8. Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, Activision
9. Big Brain Academy, Nintendo
10. The Simpson’s Game, EA
It perhaps comes as no surprise to see FIFA 2008 in the top ten, though some of the other titles really don’t fit well in the “casual gamer” bracket.
Do you agree with IDG? Let us know your thoughts.