It’s that time of the year again when the NPD Group releases its data on the best-selling video games and consoles of the past year. According to the data, the Nintendo Switch was the top-selling console in 2022, surpassing the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. The NPD Group also released its list of the top 20 best-selling games of 2022, with Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 taking the top spot, followed by Elden Ring, Madden NFL 23, and God of War: Ragnarök. The list also includes sports games, console exclusives and games like Pokémon Scarlet/Violet and Pokémon Legends: Arceus. With the year 2022 behind us, it’s now time to look ahead and predict which game will be the best-seller of 2023. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom seems like a strong contender, assuming it releases this year.
One way that Nintendo can improve in 2023 is by continuing to release a steady stream of first-party titles for the Switch. This could include new entries in popular franchises such as Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon, as well as new IPs that can attract a wider audience. Additionally, Nintendo could focus on expanding the capabilities of the Switch, such as by releasing new hardware or software updates that enhance the console’s performance or add new features.
Another area where Nintendo can improve in 2023 is in its approach to digital distribution. While the company has made strides in this area in recent years, it could still benefit from expanding its digital storefront and offering more options for players to purchase and download games. This could include the launch of a subscription service similar to Xbox Game Pass or PlayStation Now, which would give players access to a wide library of games for a monthly fee.
Finally, Nintendo could also focus on expanding its presence in the esports and streaming space. This could involve investing in partnerships and resources to support competitive gaming events and tournaments, as well as developing tools and resources to help streamers and content creators create high-quality content on the Switch. This could help attract new players to the platform and create a more engaged and dedicated player base.