Do you know what the average computer and video game player is like? The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has released their annual research report, “Essential Facts About the Computer and Video Game Industry”.
Statistics:
- The average gamer in 2012 is 30 years old.
- 98 percent of parents feel the ESRB rating system is either very or somewhat helpful in choosing games for their children.
- 66 percent of parents believe game play provides mental stimulation or education.
- The top reason parents play video games with their kids is because it is fun for the entire family.
- 47 percent of game players are female.
- The Average US household owns at least one dedicated Game Console, PC, or Smart phone.
- 49 percent of US households own a dedicated game console, and those that do own an average of 2.
- Women 18 or older represent a significantly greater portion of the game-playing population (30%) than boys age 17 or younger (18%)
- The average age of the most frequent game purchaser is 35
- 42% of game players believe that computer and video games give them the most value for their money, compared with DVDs, music or going out to the movies
- 46% of gamers have purchased or plan to purchase one or more games in 2012
- Some of the top reasons gamers say they purchase a computer or video game: quality of game graphics, an interesting storyline, a sequel to a favorite game, word of mouth.
- Types of online games played most often: Puzzle/boardgame/gameshow/trivia/cardgames (42%)
- 15% of most frequent game players pay to play online.
“With such a wide and diverse population of computer and video game players, it is important to learn all we can about the games and the people who play them
For VGVN, we’re focused on showing the positive impact that video games can have on our economy, health, artistic expression, education, everyday life, and families. ESA’s findings help bolster that case in a number of ways. For example, the numbers show that a majority of parents feel video games are a positive part of their children’s lives and that 59 percent of parents believe games help kids connect with friends.”
You can read the entire report here.
