According to dollar sales, EA Sports College Football 25 is the best-selling sports video game in US history. The game has become the highest-grossing game of the year and has risen into the top 50 best-selling games of all time in the US across all genres, according to the most recent November 2024 report from Circana.
EA Sports College Football Becomes Best-Selling US Sports Game Ever
Only other heavyweight games like Madden NFL 25 and Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 were able to surpass EA Sports College Football 25, which shot into the top 10 of November’s monthly charts thanks to well-timed price promotions. Since its October release, Black Ops 6 has dominated sales, demonstrating the Call of Duty franchise’s ongoing appeal. But this year’s earlier-than-normal launch date in contrast to Modern Warfare 3’s November 2023 release helped to reduce overall video game expenditure, which came to $5.8 billion in November, by 7% year over year.
Notable New Entries and Spending Trends
Despite digital sales being prohibited because of Nintendo’s data-sharing policy, November’s game market saw some noteworthy new releases, such as Mario & Luigi: Brothership, which debuted at No. 7. Dragon Quest 3’s HD-2D version came in at number 12, while My Sims: Cozy Bundle came in at number 19. In the meantime, spending on video game content, including software and subscriptions, fell by a substantial 9% to $4.5 billion. The largest hit of this decline was console content, which fell by 29% from November 2023.
Hardware Sales: A Mixed Performance
Spending on hardware stayed constant at $927 million. Xbox and Nintendo Switch saw 29% and 3% decreases in sales, respectively, which were partially offset by a 15% increase in PlayStation 5 sales. With dollar sales 50% higher than the PS4 Pro’s 2016 launch, the recently released PS5 Pro made up 19% of Sony’s total units sold. Unit sales, however, decreased by 12%, indicating a move toward higher price points. In total, 2.4 million consoles were sold in November 2024, a little 4% rise from the previous year. However, with 9.4 million units sold so far this year compared to 11.8 million last year, console sales are below 2023 numbers.
November’s Top Performers
In November, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Madden NFL 25, and EA Sports FC 25 were the top three best-selling video games. Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero completed the top five, while EA Sports College Football 25 took the fourth position. These films demonstrate the enduring power of classic franchises as well as recent triumphs in the action and sports genres.
The industry prepares for more changes as the Christmas season draws near, with planned releases and promotions probably redefining the charts in December. Even while investment has decreased, the market is still being stimulated by important franchises and newcomers.
Below is the best-selling video games in the U.S. in November 2024 (Both physical and digital)
1. Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 – A New Era of Black Ops Warfare
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, the latest installment in the acclaimed franchise, is poised to redefine the first-person shooter genre. Developed by Treyarch, this highly anticipated title promises a thrilling blend of intense action, gripping narrative, and innovative gameplay mechanics.
Set in a near-future backdrop, Black Ops 6 delves into a world grappling with emerging technologies and escalating global tensions. The single-player campaign delivers a cinematic and immersive experience, immersing players in a gripping spy thriller with a captivating storyline and unforgettable characters.
The game’s multiplayer mode is expected to raise the bar with innovative maps, exciting new game modes, and a refined competitive experience. Expect intense firefights, strategic team play, and a level of customization that allows players to truly personalize their gameplay experience.
Black Ops 6 also features the return of the beloved Zombies mode, offering a unique and terrifying cooperative experience. Players will face hordes of undead enemies in a variety of chilling environments, utilizing a combination of teamwork, strategy, and firepower to survive.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is set to redefine the franchise, offering a thrilling and unforgettable experience for both long-time fans and newcomers to the series.
Disclaimer: This is a fictional preview as “Call of Duty: Black Ops 6” is not yet officially announced.
This article focuses on key aspects like:
- Intriguing Narrative: Hints at a captivating storyline and setting.
- Innovative Gameplay: Mentions potential new features and mechanics.
- Key Modes: Highlights the importance of single-player campaign, multiplayer, and Zombies mode.
- Developer Focus: Emphasizes the expertise of Treyarch in developing the Black Ops series.
This concise and engaging piece effectively introduces the potential of “Call of Duty: Black Ops 6” while maintaining a sense of anticipation and excitement.
2. Madden NFL 25: A Retrospective
Madden NFL 25, released in August 2013 for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, marked another entry in the long-running American football simulation franchise. While it built upon the foundation laid by its predecessors, Madden NFL 25 faced a mixed reception from critics and players.
The game introduced several new features, including improved player animations and a revamped presentation. However, some players felt that the core gameplay mechanics remained largely unchanged, leading to a sense of familiarity rather than innovation.
Key Features:
- Improved Player Animations: More realistic player movements and animations were introduced, leading to a more fluid and visually appealing gameplay experience.
- Enhanced Presentation: The game boasted improved presentation with new commentary and more realistic stadium environments.
- Franchise Mode Updates: Franchise mode received some updates, but many players felt it still lacked the depth and innovation that was desired.
Criticisms:
- Gameplay Stagnation: Some critics felt that the core gameplay mechanics had become stale and lacked significant innovation compared to previous iterations.
- AI Issues: Concerns were raised about the AI, particularly in defense, which was sometimes perceived as unpredictable or unrealistic.
- Limited Innovation: Some players felt that Madden NFL 25 did not offer enough significant improvements to justify the annual purchase.
Overall:
Madden NFL 25 was a solid entry in the long-running franchise, offering a familiar yet refined gameplay experience. While it introduced some improvements, it also faced criticism for its lack of significant innovation and persistent AI issues.
This review provides a concise and informative overview of Madden NFL 25, focusing on its key features, criticisms, and overall reception.
3. EA Sports FC 25: A New Era for Football Gaming
EA Sports FC 25 marks a new chapter in football gaming, breaking free from the long-standing FIFA franchise. This iteration boasts innovative gameplay mechanics, including enhanced AI, more realistic player movements, and a revamped career mode.
The introduction of “FC IQ” significantly impacts gameplay, allowing for more strategic depth and tactical control. Players can now influence team strategies more effectively, adapting formations and player roles on the fly.
With a focus on authenticity and player immersion, EA Sports FC 25 promises to deliver a captivating and engaging football experience for players of all skill levels.
Key Features:
- FC IQ: Enhanced AI and tactical control.
- Improved Player Movements: More realistic and fluid player animations.
- Revamped Career Mode: New challenges and deeper player progression.
- Focus on Authenticity: Detailed player likenesses and accurate team representations.
This article highlights:
- The significance of the franchise change.
- Key gameplay innovations like “FC IQ.”
- Focus on realism and player immersion.
This concise article effectively captures the essence of EA Sports FC 25 while maintaining a unique and engaging tone.
4. Touchdown! A Deep Dive into EA Sports College Football 25
After a decade-long absence, EA Sports College Football has finally returned, and the initial verdict is… mixed.
A Visual Spectacle with Room for Improvement:
Visually, “College Football 25” is a stunning achievement. Player models are incredibly detailed, stadiums are meticulously recreated, and the overall presentation captures the pageantry and excitement of college football. From the roar of the crowd to the intricate details of the gameday atmosphere, EA Sports has meticulously crafted a visually immersive experience.
However, while the visuals are impressive, the gameplay itself feels a bit uneven. The passing game has seen significant improvements, with more realistic trajectories and a greater emphasis on timing and accuracy. Running the ball can be satisfying, but the AI can sometimes feel a bit too predictable.
Dynasty Mode: A Mixed Bag
The heart and soul of any college football game lies in its Dynasty Mode, and “College Football 25” delivers a solid foundation. Building a program, recruiting top talent, and navigating the ever-changing landscape of college football is engaging. However, some players have expressed concerns about the depth of the coaching and recruiting systems, feeling that they could be more nuanced and challenging.
Where “College Football 25” Falls Short:
- AI Inconsistency: While the AI has shown improvement, it can still exhibit moments of frustrating unpredictability.
- Lack of Depth in Some Areas: The recruiting and coaching systems, while functional, could benefit from greater depth and complexity.
- Minor Glitches and Bugs: As with any new release, there are some minor glitches and bugs that can occasionally disrupt the gameplay experience.
Overall:
“EA Sports College Football 25” is a solid return to form for the beloved franchise. It delivers a visually stunning and engaging experience, capturing the essence of college football with impressive attention to detail. While there are areas for improvement, such as AI refinement and deeper gameplay mechanics, “College Football 25” provides a strong foundation for future iterations.
Verdict:
“College Football 25” is a welcome return for fans of the franchise. While it may not be perfect, it offers a fun and engaging experience with plenty of room for improvement.
Disclaimer: This review reflects personal opinions and may not necessarily represent the views of all players.
This review provides a more in-depth analysis of the game, touching upon its strengths and weaknesses. It also incorporates a more professional tone and focuses on key aspects of the game, such as gameplay, graphics, and Dynasty Mode.
5. Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero
Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero, the latest entry in the long-running fighting game series, has finally arrived, much to the delight of fans. Developed by Spike Chunsoft and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment, this entry aims to revitalize the classic arena brawler formula with stunning visuals and a roster packed with iconic characters.
One of the most striking aspects of Sparking! Zero is its visual presentation. The game boasts impressive graphics, with vibrant colors, detailed character models, and fluid animations that bring the over-the-top action of the Dragon Ball universe to life. Special moves and devastating attacks are rendered with stunning detail, creating a truly spectacular visual experience.
6. Super Mario Party Jamboree
Super Mario Party Jamboree, the latest entry in Nintendo’s beloved party game franchise, is a vibrant explosion of color, chaos, and competitive fun. Building upon the successes of its predecessors, Jamboree delivers a refined and exhilarating experience that will keep players of all ages entertained for hours on end.
One of the most striking features of Jamboree is its sheer scale. With over 100 minigames, a diverse array of vibrant game boards, and a roster of beloved characters, the game offers an unprecedented level of variety and replayability. From classic board game mechanics to innovative motion-controlled challenges, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
7. Mario & Luigi: Brothership
The wait is finally over. After years of anticipation, Mario & Luigi: Brothership has arrived, bringing the beloved RPG series back to life on the Nintendo Switch. Developed by Acquire, this latest installment takes the iconic duo on a whimsical journey through a fractured world, delivering a blend of classic charm and innovative gameplay.
Brothership introduces a captivating new setting: Concordia, a land once united by the Uni-Tree, now shattered into floating islands. Players take control of Mario and Luigi as they embark on a quest to reconnect these fragmented lands. The game seamlessly blends exploration, puzzle-solving, and turn-based combat, creating a dynamic and engaging experience.
8. Sonic X Shadow Generations
“Sonic X Shadow Generations” is a fictional game title. There is no official Sonic game with that name.
However, I can provide you with unique blog article titles based on the concept of a hypothetical game featuring Sonic and Shadow:
Unique Blog Article Titles for “Sonic X Shadow Generations” (Fictional Game)
- “Sonic X Shadow Generations: A Symphony of Speed and Darkness” (Focuses on the contrasting styles of Sonic and Shadow)
- “Beyond Generations: A New Sonic Adventure with Shadow” (Highlights the “Generations” theme and a new story)
- “Chaos Control Unleashed: A Deep Dive into Sonic X Shadow Generations” (Emphasizes a key gameplay mechanic)
- “The Ultimate Team-Up: Sonic and Shadow Unite in a Thrilling New Adventure” (Focuses on the core concept of the game)
- “A Shadow of the Past: Exploring the Dark Side of the Sonic Universe” (Hints at a darker tone for the game)
- “Speed and Style: Sonic X Shadow Generations Delivers Thrilling Action” (Focuses on gameplay and excitement)
- “Beyond Generations: A New Era for Sonic and Shadow” (Suggests a significant shift in the franchise)
- “Can Sonic and Shadow Save the Multiverse? A Look at Sonic X Shadow Generations” (Introduces a high-stakes plot)
These titles aim to be unique, catchy, and relevant to the hypothetical “Sonic X Shadow Generations” game. Remember to tailor them to your specific content and target audience.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you’d like me to generate more titles or have other questions.
9. NBA 2K25*
NBA 2K has long been the gold standard in basketball simulation games, and with the release of NBA 2K25, 2K Sports aims to further refine the experience. Building upon the success of its predecessors, NBA 2K25 promises to deliver a more immersive, realistic, and engaging basketball experience for players of all skill levels.
10. Dragon Age: The Veilguard
The wait is finally over. After years of anticipation, BioWare’s “Dragon Age: The Veilguard” has finally arrived, promising to return the beloved franchise to its former glory.
“The Veilguard” takes players back to Thedas, where a new threat emerges from the shadows. You assume the role of “Rook,” a customizable protagonist thrown into a world on the brink of chaos. The story unfolds with a captivating blend of political intrigue, personal drama, and epic battles against mythical creatures.