What Makes a Game Worth Pre-Ordering in 2025?
Methodology
Type of Study
Sample Size
Sample Size
Industry
Segment
Sub-Segment
Target Audience
the challenge
Game developers and publishers continue to bank on pre-orders—but in a world of early access, patches, and review videos, gamers are more cautious.
The big question: What drives someone to pre-order a game instead of waiting?
Our Approach
We conducted a quantitative CAWI study with 2,200 gamers across the UK, analyzing the key triggers, trust signals, and barriers influencing pre-order decisions for PC and console games.
Key Insights
Gamers who pre-order tend to follow trusted franchises, creators, or studios. Early gameplay reveals and exclusive content can tip the scale, but broken promises in past launches weigh heavily. Reputation, transparency, and community feedback are far more persuasive than flashy trailers alone.
Impact
Studios are rethinking launch hype. The focus is shifting to authenticity, beta access, and community-driven promotion to rebuild pre-launch trust and encourage early commitment without overpromising.
Conclusion
Pre-orders in 2025 are earned—not assumed. Gamers demand proof before they pay.