What are the biggest accessories of Christmas 2015?

2015’s Q4 looks to be one of the biggest in years for retailers, as a packed release schedule drives up sales.

But it’s not just about software: accessories are also set for a Christmas to remember.

MCV asks experts in the sector what UK stores should keep an eye out for

What major trends have you seen affect the games accessories sector since the beginning of the PS4 and Xbox One generation?

Jonathan Rose, distribution manager, Lime Distribution: Accessories don’t seem to be so susceptible to the same uncertainty that is experienced with other products.

Generally, we have been seeing a high increase in sales as more and more of the market realises the potential of being involved with the eSports scene.

Paul Carrington, sales director, Accessories 4 Technology: Consumers are now much more likely to purchase a licensed accessory or peripheral to support gameplay on their new console.

We have also seen that, whilst the older-gen consoles have struggled in both hardware and software sales, accessory sales have remained buoyant.

What will the biggest challenges be for the accessories market over the next 12 to 18 months?

Dave Nelson, UK sales manager, PDP: It’s a highly competitive market with many players. Products designed and manufactured from the ground up provide a huge advantage over the competition. Manufacturers can tailor ranges based around market dynamics and by listening to what consumers want.

Carrington: It doesn’t take long for the accessory industry to realise what the winning products are in terms of sell-through and this is quickly followed by the market becoming flooded with products from these successful categories.

Innovation and point of difference is key to the direction of accessories. From a retail perspective, bundling accessories with hardware and key software releases is vital.

"Headsets will still be the key product sector in terms of third-party brand sell-through this Christmas."

Paul Carrington, A4T

How has the eSports sector affected the accessories market?

Rose: eSports has motivated manufacturers to invest and develop much higher-grade products in order to satisfy the demands of the hardcore and pro gamer audiences.

Nelson: Higher quality accessories have been around for some time for eSports – mostly around the PC. You certainly see wired controllers and headsets at tournaments. Certain controllers for Xbox One, for example, feature customisable buttons which will give a competitive advantage, particularly in first-person shooters.

What accessories and categories do you expect to be the biggest sellers this Christmas?

Nelson: Audio will again play a big part this Christmas. It is another saturated category for brands, with headsets and chat communicators. We will see more chat communicators for both Xbox One and PS4, as well as headsets at a sub-50 price point. 2016 will also be very strong for audio growth. We also predict continued success with controllers next year.

Carrington: Without a doubt, headsets will still be the key product sector in terms of third-party brand sell-through.

Rose: There are some exciting Black Ops III and Halo 5 licensed products coming out in Q4 which we are anticipating excellent sales for, as well as ongoing SKUs.

With the arrival of VR products and the realisation of these at retail over the next six months, we believe this segment will attract a lot of interest from consumers and retailers alike.

Halo 5: Guardians Controller Stand

Approved by Halo developer 343 Industries, this handy stand for the Xbox One controller is designed to match the limited edition Master Chief pad.

SRP: 14.99

Manufacturer: Controller Gear

Distributor: Lime Distribution

Contact: 01622 845 161

Protect Pro Controller Accessory Pack

Comprising of a silicone jacket to improve comfort, grip and protection, plus antibacterial wipes, a USB charging cable and a cleaning cloth and spray, this kit is designed to keep consoles and controllers looked-after.

SRP: 12.99

Manufacturer: 4Gamers

Distributor: Accessories 4 Technology

Contact: pcarrington@a4t.co.uk

Afterglow Prismatic Controller for Xbox One

This Xbox One pad is built with dimmable Prismatic LED lighting, which allows gamers to set an illuminated colour. Other features include ALPS analog sticks, dual multi-function wheels with six programmable actions and app compatibility.

SRP: 49.99

Manufacturer: PDP

Distributor: Exertis

Contact: 01279 822 822

A40 TR Mod Kit Green

Astro Gaming’s A40 TR headset is designed to be adaptable to a range of game playing environments thanks to a separately-available line of mod kits. These mod kits include components such as noise-cancelling ear cushions, voice-isolating mics and speaker tags.

SRP: TBC

Manufacturer: Astro Gaming

Distributor: Lime Distribution

Contact: 01622 845 161

PRO4-100 Wireless Stereo Gaming Headset

Operating over a 2.4GHz wireless connection up to 10m away, this headset can last for up to six hours between charges. It comes equipped with 40mm speaker drivers, a fold-away microphone, padded ear cushions and a 3D sound mode to boost immersion.

SRP: 49.99

Manufacturer: 4Gamers

Distributor: Accessories 4 Technology

Contact: pcarrington@a4t.co.uk

Play & Charge Battery Packs – D/Pack

This handy add-on recharges an Xbox One wireless controller, without disrupting gameplay. Charge level is displayed by an LED indicator. Two rechargable batteries and two micro USB connections come included.

SRP: 14.99

Manufacturer: Stealth

Distributor: Accessories 4 Technology

Contact: pcarrington@a4t.co.uk

Energizer Plug and Play Magnetic Charging Kit

Officially licensed by Microsoft for the Xbox One, this pack includes a 2.8-metre cable that gamers can use to power their pads while playing or in-between sessions. Cable and controller hook up via an easy magnetic connection, which also provides quick release. An Energizer Recharge Battery is included.

SRP: 14.99

Manufacturer: PDP

Distributor: Exertis

Contact: 01279 822 822

FPS Freek Black Ops III Reveal Edition

Made in partnership with Call of Duty studio Treyarch, this thumbstick accessory features the signature orange-on-black colour scheme and a bold, laser-etched logo of Black Ops III. The accessory is in limited supply, and built to withstand aggressive use by players.

SRP: 14.99

Manufacturer: KontrolFreek

Distributor: Lime Distribution

Contact: 01622 845 161

Game Grips For Xbox 360

Consisting of two silicone jackets and four thumb grips compatible with official Xbox 360 pads, these products add protection and comfort. They’re easy to take on and off, and don’t impede access to any of the controls.

SRP: 9.99

Manufacturer: Stealth

Distributor: Accessories 4 Technology

Contact: pcarrington@a4t.co.uk

AG7 ‘True’ Wireless Headset

The AG7 boasts ‘true’ wireless connectivity via USB transmitter, with a range of up to 100 feet. Battery life lasts up to 16 hours. Two audio modes: Bass Boost and Pure Audio, are included, as well as integrated volume, microphone muting and audio mode controls. A flexible noise cancelling microphone adds chat support.

SRP: 99.99

Manufacturer: PDP

Distributor: CentreSoft

Contact: 0121 625 3891