HowLongToBeat Has Announced 2021’s Most Played Platforms

It's been quite a wild ride for gamers this year, with no thanks to the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S stock shortages (thanks, scalper bots) playing a huge part in the industry's annual narrative. And it's because of those shortages, that statistics have lopsided in terms of most played platforms of the year — especially on HLTB.

With both Sony and Microsoft struggling to provide enough units, as well as scalpers hoarding whatever limited stock they can claw onto, it means the likes of ex-gen consoles and handheld hardware has fortunately been able to survive another cull. And according to HowLongToBeat (HLTB), the PC was the most played platform in 2021, followed closely by the PS4, and then the Nintendo Switch.

Falling into the fourth position was the PS5, which doesn't come as a major surprise, considering the lack of available units and what have you. The Xbox Series X/S, on the other hand, fell into seventh place — which was actually below the PS3. So, not the best of starts for Microsoft.

Of course, it is subject to change…

Thankfully, with both gaming giants making promises to deliver more consoles, the most played platforms are likely to change for 2022. But as for this moment, PC remains the leader of the pack, with millions of users flocking to HLTB to log their reviews and session times under its subdomain.

Of course, this is all revolving around the HLTB squad, meaning statistics could very well be different elsewhere. But given the fact that the IGN-owned handle is a well-known feature for most gamers around the world, it's definitely a credible source to analyse.

So, what's your take? Are you surprised by the Xbox Series X's low user base? What do you think will come out on top in 2022? Let us know over on our socials here or down in the comments below.