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Discover the 10 Most Profitable Video Game Franchises Ever Made

games from 2010

Discover the 10 Most Profitable Video Game Franchises Ever Made

Across film, television, novels, comics, and practically every other form of entertainment media, one concept keeps the money coming in for years and years to come. That’s right: a good old-fashioned franchise. Whether you call it a franchise, a series, a cinematic universe, a multiverse, or some other catchy phrase, the truth of the matter remains the same. A franchise continues a story, follows up with characters, or explores a universe over years or even decades. The video game industry loves a good franchise. These are the most profitable video game franchises ever made, ranked from least to most:

  • The Sims
  • LEGO Series
  • Wii Series
  • Minecraft
  • FIFA
  • Grand Theft Auto
  • Call of Duty
  • Pokémon
  • Tetris
  • Mario

5 Must-Know Facts About Video Game Franchises

  1. Many of the games included in the most profitable video game franchises are popular in both console and arcade forms. However, the following list does not include sales figures from arcades — only consoles and mobile sales. This is because arcade sales figures are harder to track and are largely kept separate from these grand totals for that reason.
  2. Mario is such a profitable video game franchise that even if you broke it down into subcategories (such as only Super Mario games or only Mario Kart games) they would still rank highly on the list of best-sellers. Super Mario would rank in between FIFA and Grand Theft Auto, and Mario Kart would rank after The Sims.
  3. These ten most profitable video game franchises are not to be confused with the longest-running video game franchises, which consist of a number of other unique titles. The Oregon Trail takes the top spot in this regard, with its first entry dating all the way back to 1978 and its latest dated 2021. That’s a whole 43 years!
  4. Of these ten most profitable video game franchises, three are Nintendo or Nintendo-adjacent: Mario, Pokémon, and the Wii series. Furthermore, of the top three, two are Nintendo. This seems to be the standard for Nintendo, which also has three of the top five best-selling video game consoles: The Nintendo DS, the Nintendo Switch, and the Game Boy and Game Boy Color.
  5. When you look at sales from branded merchandise, television, film, and other media beyond video games, Pokémon is the highest-grossing media franchise of all time with over $77 billion in estimated revenue since 1996. Oddly enough, Winnie the Pooh is a close second with $74 billion in estimated revenue since 1924.

10. The Sims

First ReleaseThe Sims (February 4th, 2000)
Latest ReleaseThe Sims 4: Growing Together (March 16th, 2023)
Available Platform(s)PC, Mobile, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, GameCube, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS, Wii, Nintendo 3DS, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox One
GenreSimulation
Copies Sold200 million

First released in early 2000 and going on to sell 200 million copies in the 23 years since then, The Sims franchise continues to be incredibly popular among gamers of all ages and types. Available on just about every single conceivable platform and console across the board, it’s no wonder why The Sims series has sold a couple hundred million copies throughout its four main entries and a plethora of spinoffs and expansion packs. It seems safe to say gamers will always find enjoyment in playing this iconic life and social situation simulator.

Life and Social Situation Simulator
The Sims 4 Growing Together - Origin PC [Online Game Code]
$40.00
  • For PC, requires Windows 10 operating system
  • Must have Origin account to download and install
  • Unlock and change aspects of your Sims' personalities throughout their lives
  • Discover how your Sims relate to those around them, including family, friends, and enemies
  • See how both planned and unplanned events shape your Sims' relationships
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/12/2024 03:33 pm GMT

9. LEGO Series

First ReleaseLEGO Fun to Build (December 1995)
Latest ReleaseLEGO 2K Drive (May 19th, 2023)
Available Platform(s)PC, Mobile, PlayStation, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo 64, GameCube, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS, Nintendo 3DS, Wii, Wii U, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
GenreVarious, puzzle
Copies Sold200+ million

From Harry Potter to The Lord of the Rings, from Marvel to DC, from Indiana Jones to Star Wars, there’s no doubt that the LEGO series of video games benefits from the goodwill gamers feel towards the franchises it adapts into minifigure form. Since the very first LEGO game in 1995 to the latest in 2023, LEGO continues to be one of the most profitable video game franchises of all time. It’s not just their licensed properties driving sales, either: They have their own original games boosting sales, as well. All in all, a continually successful series of games fun for all ages.

LEGO Open-World Driving Game
LEGO 2K Drive - Xbox One
$24.99
  • Comes with a physical LEGO kit so you can build your own 3-in-1 Aquadirt Racer
  • Play in Story Mode, Cup Series tournaments, or minigames
  • Explore the open world of Bricklandia as you progress through the game
  • Build your own dream rides
  • Take your vehicle on the racetrack, through off-road terrain, and in open waters


We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/12/2024 03:53 pm GMT

8. Wii Series

First ReleaseWii Sports (November 19th, 2006)
Latest ReleaseNintendo Switch Sports (April 29th, 2022)
Available Platform(s)Wii, Wii U, Nintendo Switch
GenreSimulation
Copies Sold207 million

Back in 2006, to show off the capabilities of their new Wii console, Nintendo opted to include a fun little sports simulation game with every sale. That game? Wii Sports — the start of a long-running, hugely successful series that stands as one of the most profitable video game franchises ever made. From sports to fitness, from minigames to workout routines, the Wii series was so very popular it actually managed to expand beyond the Wii console. It went on to arrive on both the Wii U and the Nintendo Switch consoles, as well.

Multiplayer Sports Games
Nintendo Switch Sports - Nintendo Switch
  • Features 7 sports including golf, bowling, tennis, badminton, soccer, volleyball, and chambara (swordplay)
  • Motion controls turn your actions in the real world into movements in the game
  • Multiplayer allows you to play with family and friends locally or online
  • Leg strap accessory needed to kick in soccer
  • Nintendo Account and Nintendo Switch Online membership required for online features


We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

7. Minecraft

First ReleaseMinecraft (November 18th, 2011)
Latest ReleaseMinecraft Legends (April 18th, 2023)
Available Platform(s)PC, Mobile, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Wii U, Nintendo Switch
GenreSurvival, sandbox
Copies Sold238 million

Existing in various virtual forms since 2009 and going on to expand far past video games in the years that followed, the ever-popular survival sandbox game Minecraft was officially released in November of 2011. In the years since then, the Minecraft franchise has expanded to books, comics, films, television, toys, and various other spinoffs and offshoots to the main title. Setting aside all those tie-ins, the video game franchise is a massive hit in its own right. Between its initial 2011 release and its latest 2023 release, there have been more than 238 million Minecraft games sold.

Action Strategy Game in the Minecraft Universe
Minecraft Legends Deluxe Edition - Nintendo Switch
$49.99
  • Deluxe version includes the standard game plus six additional skins
  • Defeat the piglins in epic battles to save the Overworld
  • Online multiplayer supports up to four players
  • Nintendo account and Nintendo Switch Online membership required for online features
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/12/2024 03:33 pm GMT

6. FIFA

First ReleaseFIFA International Soccer (December 15th, 1993)
Latest ReleaseFIFA 23 (September 30th, 2022)
Available Platform(s)PC, Mobile, Sega Genesis, PlayStation, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PlayStation Portable/PlayStation Vita, Super NES, Nintendo 64, GameCube, Nintendo DS, Nintendo 3DS, Wii, Wii U, Nintendo Switch, Game Boy/Game Boy Color/Game Boy Advance, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
GenreSports simulation
Copies Sold325 million

While number six on this list of the most profitable video game franchises of all time, the FIFA series has the distinct honor of being the number one best-selling sports video game series of all time. Selling more than 325 million copies between the years of 1993 and 2022, the series is likely set to head in a new direction going forward. Its long-running partnership with EA comes to a close in the summer of 2023, meaning FIFA will have to reboot or rebrand if the series hopes to continue. In any regard, its spot in the number six place on this list is very impressive.

Best World Cup Game
FIFA 23 – PlayStation 5
$29.99
  • Features over 19,000 players, over 700 teams, over 100 stadiums, and over 30 leagues
  • Play as women's club teams for the first time in FIFA history
  • HyperMotion2 Technology utilizes real-world motion capture for more realistic animation
  • Play some of the biggest men’s and women’s soccer tournaments
  • Customize your own dream team in FIFA Ultimate Team
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/12/2024 04:03 pm GMT

5. Grand Theft Auto

First ReleaseGrand Theft Auto (November 28th, 1997)
Latest ReleaseGrand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition (November 11th, 2021)
Available Platform(s)PC, Mobile, PlayStation, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PlayStation Portable, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS, Nintendo Switch
GenreAction adventure
Copies Sold395 million

As the quickest-selling entertainment product in history as well as the number two highest-grossing video game of all time, Grand Theft Auto V alone could earn the Grand Theft Auto franchise a spot on this list of the most profitable video game franchises of all time. But, counting all five main entries and its number of spinoffs and offshoots over the years, Grand Theft Auto is able to secure the number five spot on this list. Plus, with the rumored release of a major long-awaited sixth installment in the coming years, you can expect to see the franchise climb up a spot or two in the years to come.

Open-World Action Adventure Game
Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy - The Definitive Edition - Nintendo Switch
$59.00
  • Includes Grand Theft Auto III, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, and Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
  • Updated with enhancements including lighting and environmental upgrades, high-resolution textures, and improved controls and targeting
  • Experience the freedom of open-world exploration throughout the three cities
  • Single-player game
  • Has gyro aiming and touchscreen support on the Switch
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/12/2024 03:53 pm GMT

4. Call of Duty

First ReleaseCall of Duty (October 29th, 2003)
Latest ReleaseCall of Duty: Modern Warfare II (October 28th, 2022)
Available Platform(s)PC, Mobile, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PlayStation Portable/PlayStation Vita, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, GameCube, Nintendo DS, Wii, Wii U
GenreFirst-person shooter
Copies Sold400 million

Narrowly edging past Grand Theft Auto to take the number four spot is Call of Duty. Originally serving as a first-person shooter taking place during various significant wars throughout history, the franchise went on to create its own storylines and situations in past, present, and future settings to great success. First showing up on the scene in 2003 and continuing to release annual new installments well into the 2020s, Call of Duty will undoubtedly continue to profit from its hugely successful franchise to no end.

Legendary First-Person Shooter
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II - PlayStation 5
$49.00
  • The sequel to 2019’s Modern Warfare
  • Features the return of favorite characters, including team leader Captain John Price and Simon “Ghost” Riley
  • Rebuilt, advanced AI system
  • New weapons, vehicles, and cutting-edge equipment
  • Play single-player campaigns or join your team in multiplayer combat
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/12/2024 03:39 pm GMT

3. Pokémon

First ReleasePocket Monsters Red & Pocket Monsters Green (February 27th, 1996)
Latest ReleasePokémon Scarlet & Pokémon Violet (November 18th, 2022)
Available Platform(s)Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS, Nintendo 3DS, Wii, Wii U, Nintendo Switch
GenreRole-playing
Copies Sold440 million

All in all, the Pokémon franchise is the most successful, the most profitable, and the most iconic franchise of all time. It has earned more than $75 billion in total revenue across games, media, merchandise, and more. As such, it only makes sense for the Pokémon series of games to rank so high on this list. However, it’s still not enough to topple the top two most profitable video game franchises (which we’ll elaborate more on below). Still, 440 million copies sold since 1996 is no easy feat. After all, that’s more than twice as many as some entries on this list.

Newest Chapter in the Pokémon Series
Pokémon Scarlet - Nintendo Switch
$53.45
  • Select Sprigatito, Fuecoco, or Quaxly to be your partner Pokémon as you begin your journey
  • Freely explore three different storylines
  • Adventure through the open world of Paldea via land, water, and air
  • Learn about battling, Pokémon biology, and more from teachers at the prestigious Naranja Academy
  • Gain new experiences during independent study called the Treasure Hunt, where you can find your own treasure and meet new people along the way
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/12/2024 03:39 pm GMT

2. Tetris

First ReleaseTetris (January 29th, 1988)
Latest ReleasePuyo Puyo Tetris 2 (December 8th, 2020)
Available Platform(s)PC, Mobile, Arcade, NES, Super NES, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo 64, Wii, Wii U, Nintendo DS, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PlayStation Portable, PlayStation Vita, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
GenrePuzzle
Copies Sold495 million

Okay, so Tetris might not be the first thing you think of when you think of the most profitable video game franchises ever made. Truthfully, it’s probably not even the tenth or the twentieth thing you think of with such a prompt. Nevertheless, Tetris remains the second most profitable video game franchise in the history of the medium. First released in console form in 1988 and continuing to thrive on current generation consoles to this day, Tetris is the underdog up against some of the more recognizable franchises on the list. (Interestingly enough, a vast majority of these sales come from mobile.)

Puzzle Game Team-Up
Puyo Puyo Tetris 2: Launch Edition - Nintendo Switch
$22.93
  • Japanese puzzle game series Puyo Puyo and the famous Tetris franchise team up again in Puyo Puyo Tetris 2
  • Match 4 or more same-colored Puyos or complete a line of blocks to clear them from your board
  • Play the original Puyo Puyo and Tetris or mix them together
  • Offline or online play from single-player to multiplayer matches
  • Compete in game-specific leagues in online mode plus free play for up to 4 players
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/12/2024 03:48 pm GMT

1. Mario

First ReleaseDonkey Kong (July 9th, 1981)
Latest ReleaseMario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope (October 20th, 2022)
Available Platform(s)Arcade, PC, Mobile, Atari, NES, SNES, Nintendo 64, Game Cube, Wii, Wii U, Nintendo DS, Nintendo 3DS, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo Switch
GenreVarious, platform
Copies Sold826 million

Perhaps surprising, perhaps unsurprising, but Mario remains number one on the list of the most profitable video game franchises of all time. Since first appearing in Donkey Kong all the way back in 1981 all the way through to contemporary releases today, the Mario franchise has continually broken records and set new ones with practically every new game. From Super Mario to Mario Kart to Mario Party to the various sports games with Mario attached to the title, the family-friendly and endlessly entertaining franchise is well-deserving of this top spot.

Mario Plus Rabbids Crossover Strategy Game
Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope
$19.99
  • Assemble Nintendo and Rabbids characters to battle
  • Play as characters including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Rabbid Peach, or Rabbid Luigi
  • Great strategic game
  • Explore planets and uncover mysterious secrets
  • Locate and save the Sparks
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/12/2024 03:48 pm GMT

Where to Buy the 10 Most Profitable Video Game Franchises Ever Made

There are a number of great places where you can find copies of the latest entries in these long-running franchises. This goes for both new and old games, as well. (Not to mention factory-sealed or used versions of the games, as well.) Regardless, it doesn’t hurt to check the game’s pricing from retailer to retailer to make sure you’re getting the best price before you purchase. Across the board, these three retailers tend to have the best selection at the greatest prices for both new and used editions:

  • Amazon
  • Best Buy
  • NewEgg

What to Know About the Most Profitable Video Game Franchises

Before diving into one of the most profitable video game franchises ever made, there are a couple of things you should know first. Firstly, you probably don’t need to go all the way back to the first entry in the franchise in order to enjoy the newest game in the series. This kind of expectation is what sets video games apart from things like film, television, or literature: Many times, you can just hop right into the newest edition and not have to worry about being behind on the story or the lore. Often, the video game — even one in a long-running series — will take time to run you through the basics first.

Secondly, you should also know that many of these franchises will continue to put out new entries every single year (or every few years, in some cases). For this reason, you also don’t need to feel like you have to keep up with the franchise with each new installment and spinoff in perpetuity. Even the most diehard fans of a franchise have been known to skip an installment or a spinoff every once in a while. There’s nothing wrong with following their lead and passing on a new game if it doesn’t really appeal to you. (You likely won’t miss much that can’t be recapped in the next game to come.)

Playing the Most Profitable Video Game Franchises: What It’s Like

So, now that you’ve purchased a game from one of the most profitable video game franchises, what can you expect to experience during gameplay? For one, you can probably expect to see a super fun, super accessible gaming experience. After all, these franchises are so hugely successful for a reason: From Mario to Pokémon to Minecraft to The Sims, most of these profitable video game franchises are fun for gamers of all ages and all experience levels. Even the more mature ones, such as Call of Duty or Grand Theft Auto, are easy to learn and quick to suck you in.

Additionally, you can expect to find that most of these games are endlessly enjoyable and infinitely replayable. From the multiplayer capabilities of Call of Duty games to the free-roaming abilities of Grand Theft Auto games, there’s always something to do within these ultra-successful franchises. (Even if you’ve played and beaten the game countless times.) That’s what makes these franchises so popular and profitable: They’re just plain fun, and they have often been fun for decades. Playing these most profitable video game franchises only solidifies this fact.

  1. Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope
    $19.99
    • Assemble Nintendo and Rabbids characters to battle
    • Play as characters including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Rabbid Peach, or Rabbid Luigi
    • Great strategic game
    • Explore planets and uncover mysterious secrets
    • Locate and save the Sparks
    Buy Now on Amazon

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    03/12/2024 03:48 pm GMT
  2. Puyo Puyo Tetris 2: Launch Edition - Nintendo Switch
    $22.93
    • Japanese puzzle game series Puyo Puyo and the famous Tetris franchise team up again in Puyo Puyo Tetris 2
    • Match 4 or more same-colored Puyos or complete a line of blocks to clear them from your board
    • Play the original Puyo Puyo and Tetris or mix them together
    • Offline or online play from single-player to multiplayer matches
    • Compete in game-specific leagues in online mode plus free play for up to 4 players
    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    03/12/2024 03:48 pm GMT
  3. Pokémon Scarlet - Nintendo Switch
    $53.45
    • Select Sprigatito, Fuecoco, or Quaxly to be your partner Pokémon as you begin your journey
    • Freely explore three different storylines
    • Adventure through the open world of Paldea via land, water, and air
    • Learn about battling, Pokémon biology, and more from teachers at the prestigious Naranja Academy
    • Gain new experiences during independent study called the Treasure Hunt, where you can find your own treasure and meet new people along the way
    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    03/12/2024 03:39 pm GMT
  4. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II - PlayStation 5
    $49.00
    • The sequel to 2019’s Modern Warfare
    • Features the return of favorite characters, including team leader Captain John Price and Simon “Ghost” Riley
    • Rebuilt, advanced AI system
    • New weapons, vehicles, and cutting-edge equipment
    • Play single-player campaigns or join your team in multiplayer combat
    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    03/12/2024 03:39 pm GMT
  5. Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy - The Definitive Edition - Nintendo Switch
    $59.00
    • Includes Grand Theft Auto III, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, and Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
    • Updated with enhancements including lighting and environmental upgrades, high-resolution textures, and improved controls and targeting
    • Experience the freedom of open-world exploration throughout the three cities
    • Single-player game
    • Has gyro aiming and touchscreen support on the Switch
    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    03/12/2024 03:53 pm GMT
  6. FIFA 23 – PlayStation 5
    $29.99
    • Features over 19,000 players, over 700 teams, over 100 stadiums, and over 30 leagues
    • Play as women's club teams for the first time in FIFA history
    • HyperMotion2 Technology utilizes real-world motion capture for more realistic animation
    • Play some of the biggest men’s and women’s soccer tournaments
    • Customize your own dream team in FIFA Ultimate Team
    Buy on Amazon

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    03/12/2024 04:03 pm GMT
  7. Minecraft Legends Deluxe Edition - Nintendo Switch
    $49.99
    • Deluxe version includes the standard game plus six additional skins
    • Defeat the piglins in epic battles to save the Overworld
    • Online multiplayer supports up to four players
    • Nintendo account and Nintendo Switch Online membership required for online features
    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    03/12/2024 03:33 pm GMT
  8. Nintendo Switch Sports - Nintendo Switch
    • Features 7 sports including golf, bowling, tennis, badminton, soccer, volleyball, and chambara (swordplay)
    • Motion controls turn your actions in the real world into movements in the game
    • Multiplayer allows you to play with family and friends locally or online
    • Leg strap accessory needed to kick in soccer
    • Nintendo Account and Nintendo Switch Online membership required for online features


    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

  9. LEGO 2K Drive - Xbox One
    $24.99
    • Comes with a physical LEGO kit so you can build your own 3-in-1 Aquadirt Racer
    • Play in Story Mode, Cup Series tournaments, or minigames
    • Explore the open world of Bricklandia as you progress through the game
    • Build your own dream rides
    • Take your vehicle on the racetrack, through off-road terrain, and in open waters


    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    03/12/2024 03:53 pm GMT
  10. The Sims 4 Growing Together - Origin PC [Online Game Code]
    $40.00
    • For PC, requires Windows 10 operating system
    • Must have Origin account to download and install
    • Unlock and change aspects of your Sims' personalities throughout their lives
    • Discover how your Sims relate to those around them, including family, friends, and enemies
    • See how both planned and unplanned events shape your Sims' relationships
    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    03/12/2024 03:33 pm GMT

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most profitable video game franchise of all time?

The most profitable video game franchise of all time is currently Mario, with more than 825 million copies sold throughout the franchise’s 40+ year history. The Mario franchise began with the release of Donkey Kong in 1981 and continues to this day.

What is the best selling video game in history?

Minecraft is the best selling video game in the entire history of video games with more than 238 million copies sold or downloaded across various platforms.

What is the fastest selling video game ever?

Grand Theft Auto V is the fastest selling video game of all time. It exceeded a billion dollars in sales after just three days on shelves. The game continues to rank among the best selling video games of all time, currently residing at the #2 spot.

What is the best selling video game console in history?

The PlayStation 2 is the best selling video game console ever made, with more than 155 million units sold since its release in the year 2000. The Nintendo DS is a close second, with more than 154 million units sold since its release in 2004.

How many Mario games are there?

To date, there have been more than 200 Mario games since the character’s debut in Donkey Kong in 1981.

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