The video game industry is a major U.S. employer and economic contributor.  

The U.S. video game industry directly employs more than 104,000 people and supports a total of 350,000 jobs across the 50 states, Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico. Employees in the industry earn an average compensation of about $168,000 a year, ranging from $67,500 in the video game retail sector to $197,800 in the video game software sector. Across all sectors of the industry, including developers, publishers, hardware and accessories makers and game-specific retail, there are more than 5,600 video game companies in the U.S. 

In 2023, total U.S. video game industry revenue was $57 billion, more than U.S. box office revenues and the entire music industry combined.

The video game industry’s growth relies on fair and open access to international markets.

The U.S. video game industry has grown by enabling interactive play and shared experiences across national boundaries. Today, 61% of Americans play video games. By 2030, the industry expects there to be 3.8 billion players worldwide. Sustaining and expanding that growth will depend on open markets with fair rules that apply equally to domestic and foreign companies. 

Trade rules that create a level playing field are essential to a thriving industry.

The following trade priorities are essential to the ability of the U.S. video game industry to create jobs, promote economic growth, innovate state-of-the-art entertainment devices and deliver unique, immersive entertainment experiences globally:

Strong IP Protection and Enforcement. Video game companies face a range of challenges around the world that, if not addressed, could restrict sales of physical and digital games. Among other challenges, international piracy or theft of video games threatens the industry and its ability to grow and deliver new, innovative game content to consumers around the world. 

Common Sense Digital Trade Policies. Consumers increasingly seek to access games through digital channels. To reach more consumers around the world, game publishers have embraced digital distribution to deliver engaging content, services and more vibrant experiences. It is critical that the data flow across international borders remain open so that players worldwide get the benefit of digital delivery of game content. 

Removing market access barriers enables consumer access to video games.

The video game industry supports eliminating or lowering barriers to trade, investment and the mobility of businesspersons between countries.

Key Issues

AI photo of video games

Artificial Intelligence

The video game industry has been using artificial intelligence for decades to help create games and improve the player experience. New AI tools have the potential to drive further innovation.

family playing video game

Digital Wellness

Billions of people globally, of all ages and backgrounds, play video games in a healthy, balanced way.

multiple people playing games in one room

Esports

Competitive video gaming creates jobs, spurs economic growth and encourages tourism.

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First Amendment

Freedom of expression helps ensure the creativity and innovation of video games.

Representation of in-game purchases

In-Game Purchases

In-game purchases make additional content and ongoing online services possible, offering consumers the option to pay for what they want and skip what they don’t.

woman playing game on computer

Inclusion & Belonging

When players see characters and stories that reflect our diverse society, we can expand their understanding, challenge stereotypes, and foster empathy.

woman using virtual reality headset

Intellectual Property

Strong intellectual property laws promote creativity, promote innovation and protect the investments that make video games possible.

close up of hands on game controller playing game in distance

Player Safety

The industry is an innovator in online safety, investing in the development and continual evolution of safety features, putting the player community first.

kids playing games together

Privacy

The video game industry provides consumers with transparency, choice and control when it comes to managing personal information.

person throwing controller in air with one hand

Right to Repair

Right to repair mandates present unique security and piracy risks to the video game ecosystem.

video game controllers

Subscription Services

Subscription-based models save consumers money, provide predictability and allow customized experiences.

coworkers discussing plans for video games

Workforce

Video game companies work diligently to attract and employ the best talent available to continue growing the industry and contributing to the U.S. economy.