PlayStation 5 Outpaces Xbox Series X|S Sales 2-to-1, Data Reveals

According to recent data unveiled by Take-Two Interactive, the sales of Sony’s PlayStation 5 have surged past those of Microsoft‘s Xbox Series X|S by a significant margin, indicating a ratio of approximately 2-to-1 as of the close of 2023.

In an investor presentation coinciding with the release of its quarterly financial results, Take-Two disclosed that a staggering 77 million current-generation consoles had been sold by the end of December 31, 2023. The data, encompassing both PS5 and Xbox Series X|S sales, was sourced from reputable research firms such as IDG Consulting, Newzoo, and the Entertainment Software Association.

While specific sales figures for the Xbox Series X|S were not confirmed by Microsoft, Sony reported surpassing the milestone of 50 million PlayStation 5 units sold by December 9, 2023. Assuming a conservative estimate of additional sales for the remainder of December, it becomes evident that the PS5’s lifetime sales had effectively doubled those of its Xbox counterpart by the close of 2023.

Moreover, throughout 2023, the PS5’s sales momentum significantly outpaced that of the Xbox Series X|S, with estimates suggesting a nearly 3-to-1 ratio, as reported by research firm Ampere Analysis.

This notable discrepancy in sales figures has placed Microsoft in a trailing position in the ongoing console market competition. Acknowledging this reality, Microsoft openly conceded to “losing the console wars,” a sentiment echoed by industry analysts who have observed Microsoft consistently ranking third behind Sony and Nintendo since its entry into the market in 2001.

As speculation intensifies regarding Microsoft’s strategic response to its market positioning, rumors have circulated suggesting a potential shift towards cross-platform releases. Titles such as Starfield, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, and the Gears of War franchise are rumored to be slated for release on PlayStation, in addition to previously speculated Hi-Fi Rush and Sea of Thieves ports for Sony’s console and Nintendo Switch.

In response to mounting anticipation, Phil Spencer, Microsoft’s head of gaming, released a statement reassuring fans of forthcoming updates. “We’re listening and we hear you,” Spencer wrote. 

We’ve been planning a business update event for next week, where we look forward to sharing more details with you about our vision for the future of Xbox. Stay tuned.”

Phil Spencer

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