EA CEO John Riccitiello has predicted the death of console gaming, claiming that in the near future devices such as Apple's iPad 2 will become the primary gaming medium.

In the interview with IndustyGamers Riccitiello argued that the cyclical pattern of console releases would eventually die out.

The CEO cited the consoles already diminishing share of the gaming market as proof. Riccitiello pointed out how in the year 2000 consoles accounted for 80 per cent of the market, yet now with the advent of casual and tablet gaming, they only speak for 40 per cent of the industry.

Riccitiello went on to state that he believed devices like the Apple iPad would eventually become the world's primary games platform:

"We have a new hardware platform and we're putting out software every 90 days. Our fastest growing platform is the iPad right now and that didn't exist 18 months ago. So the idea that we're categorizing the industry as being [cyclical]... Nintendo is off cycle with what? I mean, the point of reference is gone.

"And so Nintendo is bringing out a new platform that brings together some of what we're learning from new media and new platforms like the iPad and then integrating that with a console. It's the perfect time for that in the industry."

The CEO went on to suggest that current console makers insistence on improving graphics was in reality a step in the wrong direction. Riccitiello argued that while still currently relevent, in the near future graphical prowess would become "inconsequential". The CEO argued that in the future consumers would be more interested in inter-device compatibility commenting:

"I think there's going to be an interesting debate when you get to processing power beyond what you can push up with a 1080p or a 720p [system]. Most people squint between 1080p and 720p, because what's the difference, seriously?

"I would argue that there's more to be provided in terms of value for the consumer in micro-transactions and social experiences and driving those better in cross-platform gameplay between a console and a PC and a handheld device and a social network than there is supercharging graphics."

The CEO's comments come after Apple revealed its own plans to expand its presence in the games industry earlier this year. To date the company has hinted at plans to increase the synchronisation between its iPad and Apple TV devices to allow gamers to play more "hardcore" games through the device.

Nintendo IPad