Games are for everyone.
Video games are one of America’s most dynamic and beloved pastimes. It’s no surprise that so many people choose to play.
People of all ages play.
Today, 29% of players are 50 or older. In 2004, only 17% of players were aged 50+. In 1999, this number was even lower at just 9%.
Age of Players
20
Average Player Age In 2004
26
Average Player Age In 2024
Games are inclusive and foster a sense of belonging.
Players come from all walks of life, with engagement across age, gender and racial/ethnic groups.
LGBT+ Self Identification Of Players:
6%
Identify As LGBTQ
Gender By Generation:
% Play Video Games 1+ hour per week
53% of players identify as male and 46% identify as female.
The benefits of video games.
Games are meaningful entertainment experiences, offering opportunities for insight and enrichment.
Why Do Americans Play?
A game for everyone.
From action and sports games to role-playing games, there is a video game for everyone.
Platforms Played Among U.S. Households:
0%
Mobile
0%
PC
0%
Console
0%
Virtual Reality
Gaming Platforms Played By Generation:
Gen Alpha and Gen Z are the biggest users of PC (54%) and Console (58%) for game play
Percent Among Total Players, Age 8+
Games bring people together.
Video games encourage human connection and foster positivity and openness between players.
Games help forge family bonds.
Families who play video games together help strengthen ties between parents and children,
and siblings with each other.
70%
of parents who play say they play video
games with their kids
40%
play with their kids at least weekly
Parents are in the driver’s seat.
Age and content ratings for video games help parents make informed decisions about which products are appropriate for their family.
Among Parents Who Have Children Who Play Games:
The business of games.
The video game industry plays an important role in entertainment choices – with games offering plenty of bang for their buck.
0%
of players say video games
offer the best value for the money
0%
read or watch player/user reviews when considering a new game
$0 billion
total consumer spending on
video games in 2023
2. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3
3. Madden NFL 24
4. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
5. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
2. Candy Crush Saga
3. Roblox
4. Royal Match
5. Coin Master
