About 65% or more than 164 million adults in the United States play video games, according to a new video game demographics report from the Entertainment Software Association (ESA). And while the stereotype of a video game player may be an anti-social nerd, the report suggests that image is a false one.
The report notes that three-quarters of all Americans have at least one video game player in their household. Additionally, nearly half of the 93% of American households that own a smartphone use it, in part, to play video games.
More than three-quarters (79%) of those surveyed said that video games provide them with mental stimulation (79%) and relaxation and stress relief (78%).
The survey also found that:
- Video game players are engaged civically, with 59% reporting they will vote in the next presidential election.
- More than half (52%) are college educated.
- They are also just as likely to have hobbies and interests outside of video game playing, with 56% of video game players more likely to have a creative hobby such as drawing, singing, or writing.
- Video games bring people together in a fun, innovative way, with 63% reporting that they play games with others online or in person.
“This is the golden age of video games. They are the leading form of entertainment in American culture. They enhance our interconnected experiences and relationships with one another and redefine the intersection between humans and technology,” said Pierre-Louis, ESA acting president and CEO, in a prepared statement. “Americans play video games to have fun, relieve stress, learn, and spend time with family. This innovative form of entertainment touches on every part of society and improves how we play, work and live.”
A few other findings from the survey:
- Video game players are more likely to pursue healthier lifestyles, averaging seven hours of sleep during a weeknight, while 32% meditate regularly.
- 90% of parents pay attention to the games their child plays, and 57% of parents enjoy playing games with their child at least weekly.
- 74% of parents believe video games can be educational for their children.
- 84% of parents state they are aware of video game ratings.
