What We learned

For the first time, national trade associations (NTAs) serving the video game industry around the world issued a survey to look at the behaviors and interests of players. The survey found that playing games is about far more than entertainment.

Top reasons to play
69%
To have fun
63%
To pass time
63%
For stress relief/relaxation

Games Support Mental Health

Playing Games

Research surveys have identified that playing video games helps people lift their moods. 

Feel less stressed
71%
Feel less anxious
61%
Feel less isolated/lonely
58%

Globally, players say that playing video games reduces stress, anxiety and feelings of isolation.

Games Make People Happy

More than half of players around the world say that playing video games provides them with a healthy outlet, helps them feel happier and helps them navigate difficult times.

70%
Provides me with a health outlet for everyday challenges
63%
Helps me feel happier
53%
Helps me get through difficult times in my life

Games Bolster Mental Health

As video games become increasingly popular online meeting places, researchers have begun looking at how they impact our mental health.

Games Boost Cognitive Skills

Video games have always been associated with storytelling and escapism, but researchers are increasingly finding that games can help bolster key cognitive skills and even slow the effects of memory loss. A study published in Nature Human Behavior found that even just a couple hours of gameplay a week can help improve attention, control and reading.

Games are Social

Playing video games is a powerful way to connect with others. Half of global gamers play with others online on a weekly basis and more than a third play with other people in person.

26%
With other people online
15%
With other people in person
51%
With other people online
38%
With other people in person

Daily basis play with others:  •in person     •online      Weekly basis play with others:   •in person     •online

Participating Associations