Grand Theft Auto dominates the global gaming scene in 2025

Barcelona, 17th September 2025 – To celebrate World Video Games Day, Softonic, the world’s leading secure software distributor, has unveiled its latest global download figures, revealing how the Grand Theft Auto saga continues to dominate the gaming landscape. This year, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas climbed back to the number one spot with more than 7.5 million downloads, followed closely by Minecraft Pocket Edition and Grand Theft Auto V. With three GTA titles in the top 10, the saga demonstrates its enduring global appeal across generations and platforms.
Beyond GTA, the rankings highlight the diversity of gamer interests worldwide. Mobile-first titles such as Brawl Stars and Garena Free Fire MAX secured strong positions, while Minecraft (in both Pocket and Java & Bedrock Editions) continues to thrive as a creative and collaborative platform. Social gaming also makes its way, with Roblox taking almost three million downloads, reflecting the growing demand for community-based and interactive experiences.
Top global downloads on Softonic (2025):
| Ranking | Videogame Apps | Downloads |
| 1 | Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas | 7.584.074 |
| 2 | Minecraft Pocket Edition | 4.782.563 |
| 3 | Grand Theft Auto V | 4.192.710 |
| 4 | Brawl Stars | 4.161.499 |
| 5 | Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition | 3.248.662 |
| 6 | ROBLOX | 2.927.557 |
| 7 | BILIBILI | 2.884.950 |
| 8 | Garena Free Fire MAX | 2.850.072 |
| 9 | Grand Theft Auto: Vice City | 2.502.069 |
| 10 | Among Us | 2.023.370 |
The global gaming industry continues to expand at a record pace. According to PwC, the market is expected to reach USD 300 billion by 2029, consolidating its role as one of the most lucrative segments of the entertainment economy. Growth is largely driven by mobile gaming adoption and the rise of online player communities. Meanwhile, a Metaplay survey reveals that 77% of developers expect industry growth in 2025, with 90% planning to launch at least one new title this year, and 63% anticipating reduced development costs thanks to artificial intelligence, a sign of how emerging technologies are reshaping the sector.
World Video Games Day celebrates the creativity and innovation of the gaming industry. Softonic remains committed to providing a platform where users can safely discover and download the most popular titles, supported by expert reviews, news, and insights.
About Softonic
Softonic is a leading tech company specialising in secure software distribution. The company operates Softonic.com, the world’s most trusted software download platform. Currently available in 18 languages, the platform categorises, evaluates, and distributes over 1 million programs and solutions for Windows, Android, and Mac worldwide. Each month, over 75 million users turn to Softonic.com, thanks to its rigorous quality controls that ensure virus-free software downloads.
Founded in Barcelona in 1997, Softonic also manages other initiatives, such as GHacks, a tech news portal for IT users. In July 2024, the company acquired Appvizer, a platform focused on B2B software selection to support professional growth. Today, Softonic has expanded its workforce to over 110 employees representing more than 22 nationalities.