Summary:
Discover the best gaming stocks to buy in 2025 for growth. Explore top companies, industry trends, and tips for building a future-focused portfolio.
The gaming industry is entering a new era of innovation and expansion, with 2025 poised to be a landmark year for both game publishers and technology providers. Driven by blockbuster releases, next-generation hardware, and the continued rise of mobile and online gaming, gaming stocks are attracting growth-focused investors worldwide.
If you're looking to capitalise on this dynamic sector, here are the best gaming stocks to buy in 2025 for growth, along with key trends and tips for building a resilient portfolio.
The global gaming market is forecast to reach $388.1 billion by 2033, up from $152.6 billion in 2024, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of nearly 11%. This expansion is powered by eSports, cross-platform gaming, in-game purchases, AR/VR, and cloud/mobile gaming.
Major releases like Grand Theft Auto VI and the Nintendo Switch 2 are expected to drive a new sales boom, while mobile gaming continues to capture a growing share of the market. With these catalysts, leading gaming companies are well-positioned for robust revenue and profit growth.
1. Take-Two Interactive (NASDAQ: TTWO)
Take-Two Interactive is set to dominate headlines in 2025 with the highly anticipated release of Grand Theft Auto VI. Analysts predict this could become the highest-grossing video game ever, with projected sales of 45 million units at launch.
Take-Two's robust content pipeline and strong brand portfolio, including franchises like Red Dead Redemption and NBA 2K, make it a compelling growth stock as the industry's demand for immersive, blockbuster titles accelerates.
2. Roblox Corporation (NYSE: RBLX)
Roblox has carved out a unique niche with its user-generated content platform, reporting a 30% year-over-year increase in monthly active users and a 9.5% revenue rise to $919 million in Q3 2024.
Despite ongoing net losses, Roblox's strong community-driven model and innovation in virtual experiences have earned it a moderate buy rating from analysts, with a price target of $55.67. As the metaverse and social gaming trends continue, Roblox is positioned for long-term growth.
3. NetEase Inc. (NASDAQ: NTES)
A leader in the Chinese mobile gaming market, NetEase boasts a diverse portfolio and significant cash reserves ($17 billion as of late 2024). With net revenues of RMB 26.2 billion ($3.7 billion) in Q3 2024 and a moderate buy rating, NetEase is well-placed to benefit from mobile gaming's global expansion and technological advancements.
Its music streaming and e-commerce arms provide additional growth levers.
4. Activision Blizzard (NASDAQ: ATVI)
Activision Blizzard remains a powerhouse with franchises like Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, and Candy Crush. The company's strategic focus on integrating AR and VR, along with a strong release calendar, positions it for future growth.
Activision Blizzard is also in the process of being acquired by Microsoft, which could further unlock value and synergies for investors.
5. Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: EA)
Electronic Arts is a global publisher known for sports franchises such as EA Sports FC and Madden NFL, as well as popular titles like The Sims and Battlefield. While it faced challenges in 2024, management expects a return to growth in FY26 with a strong content pipeline.
EA's consistent investment in live services and digital content keeps it relevant in a competitive market.
6. Nintendo (OTCMKTS: NTDOY)
Nintendo is set for a major rebound in 2025 with the launch of the Switch 2 console, expected to revitalise hardware and software sales.
Despite a forecasted dip in revenue and profit for the fiscal year ending March 2025, the company's strong brand, loyal fanbase, and upcoming hardware refresh make it a top pick for growth investors as the console cycle turns.
7. Sea Limited (NYSE: SE)
Sea Limited, via its Garena division, is a major force in mobile gaming and eSports in Southeast Asia and beyond. Its flagship title, Free Fire, saw a 34% increase in annual bookings in 2024 and remains the world's most downloaded mobile game.
With a growing user base and diversified business across e-commerce and fintech, Sea Limited offers broad exposure to the digital economy.
8. Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT)
Microsoft, through Xbox Game Studios and its pending acquisition of Activision Blizzard, is deepening its footprint in gaming. Xbox Game Pass, cloud gaming, and integration of major franchises position Microsoft as a long-term winner in the sector, benefiting from both content and platform growth.
Blockbuster Releases: Major titles like Grand Theft Auto VI, Assassin's Creed Shadows, and Monster Hunter Wilds are set to drive industry sales.
Next-Gen Hardware: The launch of Nintendo Switch 2 and ongoing upgrades to PlayStation and Xbox consoles are expected to boost both hardware and software revenues.
Mobile Gaming Growth: Mobile remains the fastest-growing segment, with Western markets leading the recovery and mature Asian markets stabilising.
AR/VR and Cloud Gaming: Technological innovation is creating new revenue streams and expanding the gaming audience.
eSports and Social Integration: Competitive gaming and community features are driving deeper engagement and monetisation opportunities.
For those seeking diversified exposure, gaming-focused ETFs such as the VanEck Semiconductor ETF and the Global X Video Games & Esports ETF offer a convenient way to invest in a basket of leading gaming stocks. These funds allow investors to capitalise on industry growth while mitigating single-stock risk.
Research Company Fundamentals: Look beyond hype and focus on revenue growth, profit margins, and innovation pipelines.
Watch Industry Catalysts: Track major game releases, hardware launches, and regulatory changes that can impact earnings.
Diversify Holdings: Consider a mix of publishers, platform providers, and regional leaders to spread risk.
Monitor Valuations: High-growth stocks can be volatile; assess whether current prices reflect realistic growth expectations.
Stay Informed: The gaming industry evolves rapidly-keep up with news, earnings reports, and analyst updates.
The gaming sector is set for robust growth in 2025, driven by blockbuster releases, new hardware, and global expansion in mobile and online gaming. Top stocks like Take-Two Interactive, Roblox, NetEase, Activision Blizzard, Electronic Arts, Nintendo, Sea Limited, and Microsoft offer diverse opportunities for growth-focused investors.
By following industry trends, diversifying your portfolio, and staying vigilant, you can position yourself to benefit from the next wave of innovation in gaming.
Disclaimer: This material is for general information purposes only and is not intended as (and should not be considered to be) financial, investment or other advice on which reliance should be placed. No opinion given in the material constitutes a recommendation by EBC or the author that any particular investment, security, transaction or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person.
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