"The upcoming launch of the Microsoft Xbox 360 heralds a new generation of console systems that together should push the worldwide game industry toward the size of the global recorded music industry by 2008," said David Cole president of DFC Intelligence.
However, DFC Intelligence also stresses that the growth for the interactive entertainment industry is about much more than video game console systems. "There is a growing portable business, and, contrary to some reports, the top PC games are making more than ever with the growth of online games and digital distribution," says Cole.
According to Cole, the key for success in the game business is recognizing the growing diversity among markets, platforms and business models. Furthermore, as console systems increasingly connect online, the game industry will become more like a network service business and less like a packaged goods industry. "The skill set of today's major players does not necessarily translate into success going forward and that could open up some opportunities for new market entrants," says Cole.