The US console market is in trouble, and even GTA 6 might not be enough to save it.
According to Circana analyst Mat Piscatella, US hardware sales through August 2026 are down 33% for Xbox and 25% for PlayStation compared to last year. Xbox sales have hit an all-time low, while PlayStation is at its lowest point since 2013.
The average Xbox console now sells for $529, up 26% from last year, while PlayStation averages $597, up 20%.
GTA 6 could boost sales when it launches in November, but there’s no guarantee, especially if prices keep climbing or consoles become harder to find.
“The US hardware market has not been in a more precarious position since the early 80s.”