Midia Research conducted a survey showing that 53% of people prefer single player titles. While this may seem obvious to gamers, there are many factors that suggest a focus on multiplayer aspects may be even more popular. In addition to the social aspect that makes those types of experiences seem like they have drawn a larger following, the potential commercial viability of multiplayer gaming with live services has attracted many companies.
It has become increasingly difficult for companies to continue to support efforts that lack some sort of multiplayer experience. This is because live service and multiplayer titles have dominated the space and because they serve as a consistent source of income. Games like Fortnite are huge successes, after all, pulling in unprecedented amounts of profit. But just because certain types of titles make more money doesn't necessarily mean that everyone prefers to play them.
A survey by data analytics firm Midia Research shows that 53% of gamers prefer single-player video games over live service titles. Midia Research has not clarified the exact sample size for its study. However, it is known that the company conducted surveys for Q1 2023 and Q1 2024 for groups in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, Germany, France, Poland, Turkey and South Africa. Midia has asked a variety of people about their gaming habits and attitudes, and a majority of them prefer single player titles, with examples The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and newer popular releases like the instant hit Black Myth Wukong.
Study shows single player games are more popular for 53% of players
Midia's study states that games like Fortnite and Roblox are exceptions to the gold rush rule for live service games. Referring to the situation as “a zero sum game”, it is clear that many companies want to chase the success that those games seem to have set a standard for. Despite this, there are plenty of examples of why that pursuit is not always worthwhile. Harmony is a notable failure due to how many resources were pumped into the game as opposed to how small an audience it attracted, but Midia specifically points to titles like Anthem and Fall of Babylonwhich some have already forgotten.
Midia Research's report highlights the consequences of companies engaging in trend chasing in an attempt to replicate impressive sales, calling it an “opportunity cost”. It points out that gambling is a volatile market, and taking risks in an “oversaturated space” can prove reckless. Still, it's not certain that all single-player games will be hits either. Star Wars Outlaws and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth failed to meet sales expectations, and they are single-player games with devoted followings. Even if companies choose to make single-player games that a small majority of consumers would rather play, those games will also face stiff competition.
