FIFA 23 – the final game in the long-running football franchise – was the most popular video game in the world in 2023, according to a new study.
CasinoUS’ study looked at the top best-selling games of 2023 and analysed each of its Twitch followers and average global Google monthly search volume to reveal their popularity ranking.
Taking each game’s most up-to-date Twitch followers and average Google monthly search volumes, the index study is weighted by each factor with scoring out of 100.
FIFA 23 came out on top with a score of 88.98, followed by Hogwarts Legacy, with 87.98. Some distance behind in third was Elden Ring, with a score of 80.93.
The rest of the top 10 most popular games comprised – in order – Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, Starfield, Resident Evil 4, Diablo IV, EA Sports FC 24, Street Fighter 6, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.
With over 10.3 million units sold, and an estimated $379 million in gross revenue since its release, FIFA 23 has an average 2,391,804 monthly searches worldwide, and around 3,424,159 Twitch followers.
Interestingly, two of the top four games were ones released in 2022 – FIFA 23 and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2. This shows the enduring appeal of some games, especially those with online and career options.
“Video games always receive a lot of hype ahead of their release, and well-known names like FIFA, Call of Duty and Assassin’s Creed will continue to compete for popularity,” said a spokesperson for CasinoUS.
“Football is the most popular sport worldwide, with approximately 3.5 billion fans, therefore it is no surprise that FIFA is the most popular video game.
“With over 50 anticipated new video games set for release in 2024, players can prepare for the excitement of more quests, adventures and entertainment.”
