Midia Research conducted a survey that found that 53% of people prefer single-player titles. While this may seem obvious to gamers, there are many factors that suggest that games focused on multiplayer aspects could be even more popular. Aside from the social aspect that makes it seem like these types of experiences have attracted a larger following, the potential commercial viability of live-service multiplayer games has enticed many companies.
It's increasingly difficult for companies to continue to support initiatives without some sort of multiplayer experience. This is due to how live-service and multiplayer titles have dominated the space and because they are a steady source of revenue. Games like Fortnite they are huge successes, after all, generating unprecedented profits. However, just because certain types of games make more money doesn't necessarily mean everyone prefers to play them.
A survey conducted by data analytics firm Midia Research shows that 53% of gamers prefer single-player video games over live service titles. Midia Research did not clarify the exact sample size of its study. However, the company is known to have conducted surveys in Q1 2023 and Q1 2024 for groups in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, Germany, France, Poland, Turkey and South Africa. Midia asked a wide range of people about their gaming habits and attitudes, and most of them prefer single-player titles, such as The Legend of Zelda: Tears of The Kingdom and newer popular releases like Instant Hit The black myth Wukong.
One study shows that single-player games are more popular for 53% of gamers
Midia's study finds that people like games Fortnite AND Roblox they are exceptions to the gold rush rule of live service gaming. Referring to the situation as “a zero-sum game,” it's clear that many companies want to chase the success for which those games seem to have set a standard. Despite this, there are plenty of examples of why it's not always worth chasing. Concord is a notable failure due to how many resources were pumped into the game in contrast to how little audience it attracted, but Midia is specifically targeting titles like Hymn AND The fall of Babylonthat some have already forgotten.
Midia Research's report highlights the consequences of companies participating in trend hunting as an attempt to replicate impressive sales, calling it an “opportunity cost.” He points out that gaming is a volatile market and taking risks in an “oversaturated space” may prove reckless. However, not all single-player games are guaranteed to be successful. Star Wars Outlaws AND Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth they failed to meet sales expectations and are single-player games with a devoted following. Even if companies choose to make single-player games that a small majority of consumers would prefer to play, these games will also face stiff competition.
