Despite a significant decline in physical sales compared to its predecessor, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach has managed to secure the top spot in the UK physical game charts. The game, released for the PS5, has displaced the highly anticipated Mario Kart World, a launch title for the Switch 2, from its leading position. However, the physical sales of Death Stranding 2 are down by 66% compared to the original Death Stranding.
The announcement comes as the gaming market continues to shift towards digital platforms. In 2024, boxed game sales accounted for a mere 4% of all video game spending in the UK, a stark contrast to previous years. This trend has made it increasingly challenging to find new physical games at retail, with many consumers turning to online shopping for their purchases.
The Changing Landscape of Game Sales
The decline in physical sales for Death Stranding 2 is not an isolated case. The gaming industry has seen a dramatic shift over the past five years, with digital sales taking precedence. Earlier reports indicated that the physical sales of Death Stranding 2 were also 33% lower than last year’s Astro Bot, although that title was noted for its unusually high physical sales.
“Death Stranding 2 was No.1 in the UK physical charts last week. Its launch sales were -66% lower than Death Stranding 1… but different eras. It’s a far more digital market today.” — Christopher Dring, Journalist
Meanwhile, the game’s Deluxe Edition, which included early access, was exclusively available in digital format, further influencing the sales dynamics.
Top Ten UK Physical Game Sales
Despite the challenges, Death Stranding 2 leads the top ten UK physical game sales, followed by:
- Mario Kart World
- Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition
- Hogwarts Legacy
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
- Minecraft
- The Thing Remastered
- EA Sports FC 25
- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Game of the Year Edition
- Mortal Kombat 1
Market Implications and Future Outlook
The move represents a broader trend in the gaming industry, where digital sales are becoming the norm. This shift is not only affecting how games are sold but also how they are marketed and consumed. According to industry experts, the convenience and accessibility of digital downloads are major factors driving this change.
Looking ahead, the industry is likely to continue its transition towards digital platforms. As more data becomes available, particularly regarding digital sales, a clearer picture of Death Stranding 2‘s overall market performance will emerge. For now, the game’s position on the PS Store in the UK, just behind EA Sports FC 25, suggests strong digital engagement.
By the Numbers: In 2024, boxed games accounted for just 4% of all video game spending in the UK.
As the gaming landscape evolves, companies like Kojima Productions will need to adapt their strategies to meet the changing demands of consumers. This includes exploring new ways to engage players and leveraging digital platforms to maximize reach and revenue.
For gamers who have already picked up Death Stranding 2, either physically or digitally, the experience promises to be as immersive and engaging as its predecessor. As the industry continues to navigate these changes, the success of titles like Death Stranding 2 will serve as a barometer for future trends in gaming.
