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The 20 Top-Selling Video Game Consoles of All Time in 2025
1. Nintendo Switch — Over 125 Million Units Sold
Since its launch in 2017, Nintendo’s innovative hybrid console has revolutionized gaming by offering both portable and home gaming experiences. Its versatility has helped it become the best-selling console in recent years, with more than 125 million units shifted worldwide. The Switch’s popularity continues to surge thanks to a strong lineup of exclusive titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Super Mario Odyssey.
2. PlayStation 4 — More Than 117 Million Units
Sony’s PlayStation 4, released in 2013, maintained its dominance through 2025, selling over 117 million units globally. Its extensive library of games, including Bloodborne, God of War, and The Last of Us Part II, bolstered its appeal. The console’s robust online ecosystem and support for third-party developers made it a favorite among gamers worldwide.
3. Nintendo DS — Approaching 150 Million
The Nintendo DS was a handheld gaming revolution when it launched in 2004, with features like dual screens and innovative gameplay. With over 150 million units sold, it remains one of the most beloved portable consoles. Its extensive game library and backward compatibility kept gamers engaged until its discontinuation in the early 2010s.
4. PlayStation 2 — Over 155 Million Units
The PlayStation 2, Sony’s flagship console from 2000, still ranks among the top-selling consoles in history, with more than 155 million units. Its vast and diverse game library, including classics like Grand Theft Auto III and Final Fantasy X, played a significant role in its enduring success. The PS2’s affordability and appeal to a broad demographic helped maintain its popularity for years.
5. Game Boy — Approximately 118 Million Units
Nintendo’s iconic handheld, the Game Boy, launched in 1989 and sold around 118 million units worldwide. Its portable design and numerous game titles, from Pokémon to Tetris, made it a staple for gaming on the go. The Game Boy’s legacy set the stage for future Nintendo handhelds.
6. PlayStation 5 — Over 40 Million Units (and Growing)
Released in late 2020, Sony’s PlayStation 5 has rapidly gained ground, with over 40 million consoles sold as of 2025. Despite supply chain challenges, strong demand persists for the latest hardware, driven by advanced graphics, faster load times, and exclusive titles like Horizon Forbidden West and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart.
7. Xbox 360 — Approximately 85 Million Units
Microsoft’s Xbox 360, launched in 2005, played a pivotal role in shaping modern gaming with its digital marketplace and online services like Xbox Live. With over 85 million units sold, it became a favorite among multiplayer enthusiasts and supported a rich library of exclusive and third-party games.
8. Nintendo Wii — Over 100 Million Units
The Nintendo Wii’s motion-controlled gameplay captivated casual and family gamers when it arrived in 2006. Its innovative approach and accessible titles like Wii Sports boosted sales past 100 million units, making it one of Nintendo’s best-selling consoles. Its impact on how gaming is played and shared remains significant.
9. PlayStation Portable (PSP) — Over 80 Million Units
Sony’s handheld PSP, introduced in 2004, offered high-quality portable gaming combined with multimedia features. Selling over 80 million units, it provided a strong alternative for gamers on the move, with hits like God of War: Chains of Olympus and Daxter.
10. Xbox One — Approximately 50 Million Units
Microsoft’s Xbox One, launched in 2013, faced tough competition but still managed to reach around 50 million sales. It gained a dedicated user base with features like Game Pass, backward compatibility, and a focus on integrated entertainment options.
11. Sega Genesis/Mega Drive — Around 40 Million Units
Sega’s Genesis, also known as Mega Drive outside North America, dominated the market in the early ’90s, selling about 40 million units. Its popular titles like Sonic the Hedgehog and Streets of Rage helped carve out a significant niche in early home gaming.
12. Nintendo 3DS — Over 75 Million Units
The 3DS expanded on Nintendo’s portable success, introducing glasses-free 3D gaming. With over 75 million units sold, it hosted hit titles like Pokemon X and Y and Animal Crossing: New Leaf. Its backward compatibility and compelling catalog kept it relevant well into the 2020s.
13. Xbox Series X/S — Over 25 Million Units
With its powerful hardware and Game Pass subscription, the Xbox Series X/S series launched in 2020, quickly gaining followers. Over 25 million units sold as of 2025, it delivers advanced technology and exclusive titles like Halo Infinite and Forza Horizon 5.
14. Sega Saturn — Approximately 10 Million Units
Although not as commercially successful as other Sega consoles, the Saturn launched in 1994 with a strong library of games, especially in Japan. Its sales reached around 10 million, and it remains a nostalgic favorite for retro gamers.
15. Atari 2600 — Estimated 30 Million Units
One of the earliest consoles to popularize home gaming, the Atari 2600 was introduced in 1977 and sold around 30 million units worldwide. Its legacy laid the groundwork for the modern video game industry.
16. Nintendo GameCube — About 22 Million Units
The GameCube, released in 2001, faced tough competition but still garnered a loyal following. Known for titles like Super Smash Bros. Melee and The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, it sold approximately 22 million units.
17. Sony PlayStation (Original) — Over 102 Million Units
Sony’s first console in 1994 marked Sony’s entry into gaming. Selling over 102 million units, it introduced players to a vast selection of genres and titles, establishing Sony as a major player early on.
18. TurboGrafx-16/PC Engine — About 10 Million Units
Although less known in North America, this console was popular in Japan, selling around 10 million. It was notable for its early CD-ROM capabilities and a solid lineup of arcade-style games.
19. WonderSwan — Estimated 3 Million Units
A Japanese-only handheld, WonderSwan was released in the late ’90s and early 2000s. Despite modest sales, it contributed to the portable gaming boom in its home country with titles like Final Fantasy and Pokémon.
20. Intellivision — About 2 Million Units
One of the earliest competitors to Atari, Intellivision launched in the late 1970s. It sold around 2 million units but left a lasting impression with its innovative controllers and game library.
The landscape of gaming hardware continues to evolve, with newer consoles pushing technological boundaries and legacy systems maintaining their influence. As of 2025, these consoles have left an indelible mark on the gaming industry, charting a journey filled with innovation, competition, and countless memorable moments.
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