Microsoft’s Xbox 360 was the top-selling games console in the US in 2012 according to a recent report, and Microsoft beat the second place console, the PS3, by a total of 2.7 million units in 2011.
The report comes from research firm NPD who have also said that the majority of the top-selling games of 2011 were for the Xbox 360, with 7 out of the top 10 being for the console.
Top-Selling Games of 2011
Popular game titles included Call of Duty: MW3, Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, and Battlefield 3, as well as games for Microsoft’s Kinect motion-sensing controller. Call of Duty: MW3 was particularly notable for its record-breaking sales, becoming one of the fastest-selling games of all time. Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim also garnered critical acclaim for its expansive open-world gameplay and intricate storyline, making it a favorite among RPG enthusiasts. Battlefield 3, with its realistic graphics and intense multiplayer modes, further solidified the Xbox 360’s dominance in the gaming market.
The Kinect motion-sensing controller was another significant factor in the Xbox 360’s success. Games like Kinect Sports and Dance Central offered a unique, interactive gaming experience that appealed to a broader audience, including families and casual gamers. The Kinect’s ability to track full-body movement without the need for a handheld controller set it apart from other motion-sensing technologies available at the time.
Impact on the Gaming Industry
The success of the Xbox 360 in 2011 and 2012 had a profound impact on the gaming industry. It not only solidified Microsoft’s position as a leading console manufacturer but also influenced the development of future gaming technologies. The Xbox Live service, which offered online multiplayer gaming, digital game downloads, and streaming services, became a model for other platforms to follow. The integration of entertainment services like Netflix and Hulu on the Xbox 360 also marked a shift towards consoles becoming all-in-one entertainment hubs.
Moreover, the Xbox 360’s success spurred competition among console manufacturers, leading to innovations in hardware and software. Sony and Nintendo both made significant advancements in their respective consoles, the PS3 and Wii, in response to the Xbox 360’s popularity. This competition ultimately benefited gamers, as it led to a wider variety of gaming options and improved technology.
The Xbox 360’s extensive library of games, robust online services, and innovative hardware features contributed to its status as the top-selling console in the US in 2012. Its influence can still be seen in the gaming industry today, as many of the features and services that were pioneered on the Xbox 360 have become standard in modern gaming consoles.
Source Ubergizmo
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.