The video game industry has evolved over decades, and generations have managed to adapt to new trends. However, this time, younger players are pushing hard and changing consumption patterns. A recent survey revealed that children and young people today no longer want physical games.
What you need to know:
- The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) conducted a survey of minors, and gaming is the favorite gift.
- Children and young people prefer paying for a video game subscription rather than a single game.
- Very few have interest in a physical video game for this holiday season.
Children and young people in the USA are not interested in physical video games
According to a survey conducted by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) of 501 minors aged 10 to 17 years in the United States, preferences regarding video games have changed significantly. Firstly, it stands out that video games are the most desired gift above any other product for this 2023 holiday season. It is noted that 72% of the respondents want a gaming-related gift, surpassing interest in clothing, accessories, mobile devices, outings, and, lastly, toys.
Now, the most striking change in consumption trends is what these children and young people who prefer gaming specifically want. The ESA survey indicates that 39% of respondents want payment or a card guaranteeing access to a video game service like Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Plus, EA Play, Ubisoft+, etc.
38% of minors in the USA also expressed a desire for a console as a gift this holiday season, while 29% also included some virtual currency in their holiday requests. Finally, only 22% showed interest in having a physical video game.
Video: Video games (as we know them) are going to die
ESA celebrates that video games are the most desired gift this holiday season
In this regard, the ESA mentions through its president and director, Stan Pierre-Louis: "More than 212 million Americans play video games regularly, so it's no surprise that games are at the top of wish lists this year. Whether a family is buying a new console, upgrading their controllers and headsets, or adding new games and expansion packs to their library, we know that video games are a great tool for families to play together and connect during the holiday season and beyond."
In the end, physical format in video games has been on the decline for years, but it accelerated during the pandemic. Today, there are stores that have decided not to sell physical games anymore while the consumption of digital games is advancing rapidly. Companies reveal that the smaller part of their game sales is in physical copies, such as Capcom, with 9 out of 10 copies sold in digital format.
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