ESA Survey Shows the Average Gamer Is 41, With Nearly Equal Gender Split

Sagar Mankar
Oct 11
2 min read

The idea that gaming is only for kids or young men doesn’t hold up anymore. The latest Power of Play survey from the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) reveals that the average gamer today is 41 years old, and the gender split is almost even: 51% men and 48% women.

The ESA’s 2025 report gathered responses from 24,216 participants across 21 countries and six continents. Everyone surveyed was at least 16 years old.

Three people playfully gaming on phones and controllers, sitting on a beige sofa. The setting is bright with dried plants in the background.

Why Do People Play Games?

When asked why they play, 66% of respondents said it’s simply “to have fun.” 58% of players said they turn to games for stress relief or relaxation, while 45% said gaming helps keep their minds sharp.

What Benefits Do Gamers Report?

The survey also highlighted the positive impact of gaming. A huge 81% said games provide mental stimulation, while 80% credited them with stress relief.

Other benefits included offering an outlet for everyday challenges (72%), helping people form new friendships or relationships (71%), and even reducing anxiety (70%). Interestingly, 64% said games help them feel less isolated by connecting them with others.

For younger players, the social aspect is even stronger. Among those aged 16 to 35, 67% said they’ve met a close friend or partner through gaming. And in the U.S. and U.K., nearly half of respondents said gaming actually improves their parent-child relationships.

Bar chart shows online and in-person play percentages, with friends highest (80% online, 81% in-person) and grandparents lowest (30% online, 35% in-person). — Image: The ESA Power of Play survey 2025 report

What Skills Can Games Improve?

According to the ESA report, about three-quarters of players believe gaming boosts creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork. More than half even said games improved their athletic skills, while many credited gaming with influencing their education or career paths.

Infographic on video games and skill development. Colorful charts show stats on education, sports, creativity, and teamwork benefits. — Image: The ESA Power of Play survey 2025 report

Which Platforms Are Most Popular?

Unsurprisingly, mobile devices came out on top, with 55% of respondents saying it’s their preferred way to play. It’s especially common among players over 50, where 61% favor mobile gaming. Younger players still lean on mobile too, with half of those under 35 gaming on phones or tablets. Consoles and PCs, meanwhile, were tied at 21% each.