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Game sales up as next-gen console war kicks into gear

The gaming industry generated $791.1 million in revenue in the US in October, according to market researcher NPD, a 5 percent increase over the same period in 2012.

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The 3DS was the top-selling hardware in October.
The 3DS was the top-selling hardware in October. Nintendo

The video game industry had a strong October despite a drop in hardware revenue, new data from market research firm NPD revealed.

The US game industry generated $791.1 million in October, up 5 percent compared to the same period in 2012, according to NPD. Hardware sales were down 8 percent to $171.7 million as consumers eyed this month's launch of the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. Software sales boosted the industry, rising 12 percent year over year to $482.5 million.

For the sixth consecutive month, the Nintendo 3DS was the top-selling hardware in October with over 452,000 units sold across the US. Microsoft's Xbox 360 was the top-selling console on the month, according to NPD. Microsoft reported on Thursday that Xbox 360 sales topped 166,000 units during the period.

Sony, which launched the PlayStation 4 on Friday, didn't reveal PlayStation 3 or PlayStation Vita sales figures.

On the software side, Grand Theft Auto V was the top-selling game in the US in October, followed by Pokemon X and Pokemon Y. EA's Battlefield 4 came in fourth place.