NPD: PS5 is the fastest selling console platform launch ever in the US

The next-generation console launches of both the Sony PS5 and Microsoft’s Xbox Series X have been marked by huge demand set against a backdrop of limited supplies and scalpers snapping up stock. Not only have both OEMs had to contend with the pandemic, they have also faced supply chain issues and even delivery delays. It has seen various publications scan the market for console availability and immediately post news stories about where to find stock such has been the trouble people have had trying to get their preferred console.

As far as preferred consoles go, the Sony PS5 has become the fastest selling console ever in the US based on dollar sales, despite its supply woes. Although NPD didn’t provide specifics of unit sales, Sony said that it expected to shift 7.6 million PS5s by the end of March. NPD didn’t offer dollar value or sales data for the Xbox Series X, but the increased recent general availability of the Series X suggests it is lagging the Sony PS5 not only in the US, but other markets as well.

According to the latest NPD data, consumer spending on video game hardware, content and accessories reached a record for the Month of March worth US$5.6 billion. This was up 18 percent year-over-year. The first three months of 2021 saw total consumer spending on gaming at a record US$14.9 billion which is 30 percent higher than for the same quarter a year ago. If there is any consolation for those who haven’t yet picked up a PS5 or Xbox Series X, exclusive next-gen titles that take full advantage of the hardware on offer have been thin on the ground.

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