Nintendo remains the dominant force in physical video game sales in the United States, with new data showing that its platforms accounted for 63% of new physical game spending in 2026 so far. The figures highlight Nintendo’s continued strength in the boxed games market at a time when physical media is facing a broader decline.
According to industry analyst Circana, Nintendo’s combined physical sales share includes games released for the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. The exact split between the two platforms was not provided.
Nintendo Leads as Physical Game Sales Decline
PlayStation accounted for 32% of new physical game spending in the U.S., while Xbox represented just over 4%. The small remaining share came from physical PC releases, according to additional details shared by Circana analyst Mat Piscatella.
The numbers arrive as the overall physical games market continues to shrink. Circana’s July 2026 data showed that U.S. consumer spending on new physical game software fell to $85 million, the lowest July total since the firm began tracking the market in 1995.
Despite the wider decline, Nintendo’s physical releases remain a major part of its business. Nintendo’s strong share also suggests that Switch and Switch 2 owners continue to support cartridges at a higher rate than players on competing platforms.
The trend could become increasingly important as the industry moves further toward digital distribution. While physical game sales are declining overall, Nintendo’s 63% share shows that boxed releases still have a significant market when supported by a large platform ecosystem and a strong retail presence.
