The Russian game console market is showing steady momentum as 2023 wrapped up, with sales in this segment nearly doubling from the previous year and hitting about 1.3 million units. This growth figure was reported by Kommersant, which cited data from M.Video-Eldorado to provide a clear picture of consumer demand and retail dynamics across the country. The trend underscores a broader pattern of sustained interest in video game hardware, driven by both new releases and a resilient base of enthusiasts who keep upgrading and expanding their setups. In practical terms, this surge translates into a market value that researchers approximate at around 23 billion rubles, reflecting robust hardware demand, ongoing promotions, and a thriving ecosystem of retailers and online platforms that make gaming more accessible for a wide audience.
Among the various segments, retro consoles stood out as a standout favorite in 2023. Analysts point to nostalgia as a powerful motivator, paired with budgets that often favor retro options due to their lower price points and lower entry barriers. The appeal extends beyond pure nostalgia; many buyers view retro systems as thoughtful gifts that bring a sense of shared history and simple, immediate enjoyment. This willingness to revisit classic games also supports a healthy second-hand market and a durable demand for compatible accessories, refurbishments, and bundled titles that keep older hardware viable and popular in a fast-paced tech landscape.
Looking ahead, anticipation built around a major release in the Russian gaming calendar. The известно date surrounding STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl has been a talking point, with official channels indicating an initial release window around September 5, 2024. While executives at GSC Game World later signaled a push into the early months of the following year, the company reaffirmed that the title would arrive simultaneously on multiple platforms. Players can expect the game to be available on Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG, alongside compatibility with Xbox Series X and S, and a PC-focused distribution plan. The broader industry discourse continues to emphasize cross-store availability, digital ownership, and the evolving model for post-launch content and updates that shape long-term player engagement.
In related coverage, GSC Game World confirmed a decision to preserve Russian subtitles for STALKER 2, highlighting a commitment to accessibility and regional reach that aligns with the expectations of Russian-speaking audiences and international fans who prioritize localized options. This choice complements broader strategies around localization, region-specific pricing, and the balance between global distribution and native language support as the studio navigates a crowded market with diverse consumer tastes.