KPMG report identifies six major shifts in the gaming industry

A report by KPMG identifies six major shifts facing the gaming industry: changes in the user ecosystem, growth strategies centered on intellectual property (IP), expansion into physical AI, increased AI utilization, the rising competitiveness of the Chinese gaming industry, and rising costs.

As casual users decrease due to competing leisure activities like OTT services, the influence of core users on PC and console platforms is growing. The report suggests companies adopt dual strategies: strengthening community engagement and IP for core users while using user-generated content (UGC) to re-engage casual players.

Furthermore, gaming technologies such as 3D content and physics simulations are being re-evaluated as essential assets for training physical AI in sectors like robotics, autonomous driving, and smart factories. Companies like Krafton are already increasing investments in humanoid robots and autonomous driving, while NCSoft is applying virtual world technologies to defense and shipbuilding sectors.

Regarding the global market, the report notes the strength of Chinese gaming companies, which are expanding from mobile to AAA console and PC titles. It advises domestic companies to monitor Chinese regulations closely and seek cooperation through publishing partnerships or joint development.