New analytical data is casting doubt on the effectiveness of Sony’s current publishing strategy regarding the release of PlayStation exclusives on PC. Market research indicates a significant decline in the number of players attracted by PC versions of PlayStation’s single-player titles.
According to a report by Newzoo, in the first three months following their PC release, users on this platform constitute, on average, only 13% of a game’s total audience. This suggests that the model of porting console hits to a new platform with a substantial delay is becoming less productive.
A key reason for this trend is the considerable time gap between a game’s launch on PlayStation 5 and its subsequent PC release. In contrast, AAA titles launched simultaneously on consoles and computers attract up to 44% of their total audience from PC within the same initial period.
Experts note that launching PC versions several years after their console debut, as seen with titles like Horizon Zero Dawn or Marvel’s Spider-Man, means that the primary demand has already been met on consoles. Consequently, the appeal of the PC version significantly diminishes.
This decline in interest is evident even in major franchises. The original Marvel’s Spider-Man attracted approximately 14% of its PC players, whereas Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 only garnered 5%.
This trend aligns with earlier reports suggesting that Sony is considering ceasing the porting of its flagship titles. One crucial reason cited is a strategy to intensify competition: while Xbox and PC continue to converge, PlayStation aims to maintain and enhance the appeal of the upcoming PS6 through strong, exclusive games.