September brings relief for video game sales

The holiday season has kicked off for the video game industry – and not a moment too soon.

Retail sales of video game software were up 3 percent in September to $630.2 million, a welcome change from the record setting lows of the past three months. The increase was welcome news, though not as strong as some industry observers were hoping for.

Overall, brick and mortar sales were off 4 percent, dragged down by a decline in hardware sales (which fell 9 percent) and accessory sales (which slid 14 percent).

The latest installment in EA's Madden series was the month's top selling game. Usually an early August release, the company pushed the game back this year to more closely align with the start of the NFL regular season. That meant tentpole franchises from Microsoft and Sony both suffered. Xbox 360 exclusive Gears of War 3 came in second, while Sony's Resistance 3 only managed to come in seventh.

Dead Island's zombie shooter Dead Island was a surprising third. Despite so-so reviews, the game's incredibly cinematic and emotional trailer convinced many to give it a shot. That trailer was integral to Lionsgate's decision to option the film rights to the game last month.

You can find the month's top selling games after the break.