Now more than ever, video games are a highly popular medium in the United States — and the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has the numbers to back it up.
The company recently reported that over 150 million Americans play video games, according to a research study titled 2015 Essential Facts About the Computer and Video Game Industry. In addition, other stats were also revealed, including the following:
- 42 percent of Americans play video games regularly, or at least three hours per week
- 56 percent of the most frequent gamers play with others
- 54 percent play in multiplayer mode weekly
- More than half of the most frequent game players say that video games help them connect with friends
- About half indicate that video games enable them to spend time with family
- 60 percent of parents whose children are gamers play computer and video games with them at least once a week
- More than three-quarters of parents say they play with their children because it is fun for the entire family and an opportunity to socialize
- 88 percent of parents whose children play games believe the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) ratings for gamers are either very or somewhat helpful when it comes to choosing games for kids
- The average game player is 35 years old
- The most frequent female game player is, on average, 43 years old
- Women 18 years-or-older represent a significantly greater portion of the game-playing population than boys 18 years old or younger
- On average, gamers have been playing for 13 years
- Consumers spent more than $22.41 billion on game content, hardware and accessories in 2014
- Four out of five American households have some form of device to play video games on
These stats indicate quite a shift in the industry more towards an older demographic, although some players seem to be taking part mainly because they kids are, and it’s easy to make a connection through their favorite games.
“Video games provide a social setting where family and friends come together to connect, learn and have fun,” said Michael D. Gallagher, president and CEO of the ESA. “The sheer number of people who regularly enjoy entertainment software and share those experiences with others underscores how video games have become ingrained in our culture.”
Gallagher was also quite to note the effectiveness of the ratings board, in terms of providing parents with details on certain content with games. “The ESRB is the gold standard for systems that for provide parents with guidance that allows them to make informed decisions,” he said.
More details are available in the full report here.