The average age of a video game player in America is 35 years old. This is based on data from the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), which found that 76% of gamers in the US are over 18.
The largest group of gamers are people aged 18 to 34, making up 38% of the population.
The average gamer is 35 years old and 41% of gamers are women. The most popular video game genres are shooters, action, and role-playing. The total consumer spending in the video game industry 2016 was $30.4 billion.
It is important to note that the average age of gamers is increasing, as generations who grew up with video games as a normal part of life are now adults. Additionally, the growth of mobile gaming has made video games more accessible to people of all ages.
Here is a breakdown of the age distribution of US gamers in 2023:
- Under 18: 20%
- 18-34: 38%
- 35-44: 14%
- 45-54: 12%
- 55-64: 9%
- 65+: 7%
The global video game industry is a billion-dollar business, with the mobile gaming market generating the most revenue.
The Big 3 in video gaming are Nintendo, Microsoft, and Sony, but other major players include Tencent, Apple, Google, Activision Blizzard, Electronic Arts, and Take-Two Interactive.
Hardware makers Nintendo, Microsoft, and Sony have a considerable advantage over other gaming companies as they own and operate the major console gaming platforms.
However, many of the best-selling games worldwide are published by gaming companies that are not platform owners, such as Activision Blizzard and EA.
The gaming industry is already highly consolidated, and there has been a significant amount of M&A activity in recent years.
For example, Microsoft is acquiring Activision Blizzard for $69 billion, and Take-Two has acquired Zynga for $12.7 billion.
Some of the most current industry trends involve new technologies such as cloud gaming and VR gaming. Cloud gaming refers to video game streaming that allows players to play games on their devices through an online connection without the need for dedicated gaming hardware or local installation of games.
VR gaming is a type of immersive gaming that uses special headsets to create a virtual world for the player.
Multiplatform games, such as FIFA and Call of Duty, are also in high demand.
These games are available on multiple platforms, such as consoles, PCs, and mobile devices. This allows gamers to play with their friends regardless of what platform they are using.
Overall, the video game industry is thriving with a lot to offer gamers. With new technologies and trends emerging all the time, it is an exciting time to be a gamer.