Online game market generated $4.5 bln in 2006

In 2006, DFC estimates that the worldwide online game market was $4.5 bln. DFC forecasts that by 2012 the worldwide online game market will pass $13 bln. Subscription revenue remains the largest portion of the market. However, by 2012 it is forecasted that consumer spending on digital distribution and virtual items will account for over 40% of revenue. For PC games, digital distribution is expected to become the leading business model in East Asia. However, the video game console systems are expected to see strong growth in digital distribution and by 2012, revenue from digital distribution on console systems is expected to pass $1 bln.