Video games have become a solid figure in the entertainment industry. As sales have grown and video games have moved into the mainstream audience, the need for solid stat tracking has been on the minds of some within the industry. ESA President Michael Gallagher believes that a tracking system needs to be put in place.

“I do think that the movie industry has a significant advantage over other forms of media because on Monday morning… whether you are driving, or looking at the newspaper, what’s there: The top ten movies. What’s next to that? Numbers,” Gallagher told a gathering of reporters earlier this month. “I don’t know if they are completely accurate, but we’re trained to believe they are. And that helps the movie industry.”

Though the music and movie industries are well established, Gallagher believes that the gaming industry is still organizing into something more cohesive, “We’re still seeking our center of gravity.”

The need for this stat tracking isn’t just for the consumers; it represents major news to investors, reporters, industry professionals and developers. “I think there is thought, because you now have significant revenue, and growth and investment and where that flows you tend to get better information,” Gallagher said. “Reporters ask for it, investors certainly do and then there are consumers. There is an advantage to the companies to figure out a way to report that.”

“We are looking forward to that evolution, I’d like to see it move faster,” he added. “I think this industry is accomplishing great things across a far great reach, than is traditionally reported.”

The video game industry has only one major group tracking sales figures for the industry. NPD Group releases a monthly stat figure that covers top games sales; this comes at a hitch though. NPD is unable to gather sales data from Wal-Mart, digital sales and the group does not offer full numbers with the public.

“Will NPD be releasing comprehensive digital sales tracking insight into the public domain? We will probably issue some research on a regular basis, but it won’t be at the level of detail that you may be expecting,” said NPD’s David Riley to Kotaku. “This is information we will keep close to the vest. Remember, we are here to serve our clients.”

The ESA has stated that the need for this stat tracker is necessary. “Someone had better do it or you’re going to have a trade association doing it,” Gallagher said. “It has got to be done.”