From Mario to GTA: The Gaming Titans That Changed Everything

Which video game franchises have maintained market dominance over the last four decades? See the shifting sales leaders from 1986 to 2025. This animated data visualisation tracks how the biggest names in gaming have performed since the mid-80s. By analysing the best-selling games in five-year intervals, we can observe how established legends like Mario compete against modern juggernauts like Call of Duty and Grand Theft Auto. Understanding these gaming industry trends reveals which brands have successfully expanded their reach and which have lost ground over time. We highlight the specific periods when franchises like Pokémon surged to the top, providing a clear look at the volatile nature of software sales. Subscribe for more data-driven insights on the entertainment industry, and let us know which franchise's growth surprised you the most.