European Game Industry Shows Growth

The European video game industry maintained steady growth in 2024, both in terms of revenue and employment. Despite global reports of layoffs in the gaming sector, European studios experienced modest workforce expansion, reflecting the region’s relative stability. According to the report by VideoGamesEurope and EGDF, the European market generated €26.8 billion in revenue, representing a four percent increase from 2023.

Digital distribution continues to dominate the market, accounting for 90 percent of total revenue, while physical sales contributed ten percent. Mobile platforms gained a larger share of revenue, increasing from 41 percent in 2023 to 44 percent in 2024, while console revenue decreased slightly. PC and streaming services experienced minor growth, with PC reaching 15 percent and streaming services four percent of the total market.

European Game Industry Shows Growth

Growth in the European Player Base

The total number of video game players in Europe reached 128.3 million in 2024, the highest in the past five years. Overall, 54 percent of Europeans aged six to 64 play video games, with 75 percent of adults over 18 participating in gaming. France has the largest proportion of gamers, with 63 percent of the population engaging in games, while Italy reports the lowest among Central and Western European countries at 33 percent.

Women make up 45 percent of European players, with an average age of 32 years. The average age of all players is 31. Compared to 2023, the age distribution remained largely unchanged, though there was a small increase in the number of players aged 15 to 24 and a slight decline among children aged six to 14.

European Game Industry Shows Growth

Gaming Patterns and Device Preferences

In 2024, Europeans played an average of 9.4 hours per week, the highest weekly playtime since tracking began in 2012. Players in Germany were the most active, averaging 11.5 hours per week, while Italian players spent the least time gaming at 6.6 hours weekly.

Despite growth in gaming activity, Europeans still dedicate more time to other media, including 16.75 hours on social networks and 23 hours watching television each week. The report also noted shifts in device usage. Playtime on smartphones and consoles increased compared to 2023, while PC gaming declined slightly, despite growing revenue for the PC segment.

European Game Industry Shows Growth

Popular Game Types Across Platforms

Different platforms show distinct trends in genre preferences. On mobile devices, puzzle games were the most popular, followed by role-playing and strategy games, as well as word games. Console players gravitated toward racing, sports, and adventure titles, whereas PC players preferred adventure, shooter, and strategy games.

Many Europeans view gaming as a positive activity, with 74 percent believing that games help exercise the brain, 68 percent indicating that games help manage stress, and 75 percent agreeing that gaming provides entertainment for all ages.

European Game Industry Shows Growth

Workforce Trends and Employment

The European gaming industry employed 116,419 people at the end of 2024, a 1.8 percent increase from 2023. Women accounted for 24.9 percent of employees, while 23.3 percent of the workforce worked in management, publishing, or customer support roles.

The remaining staff were primarily engaged in game development. The relatively steady growth in employment contrasts with significant layoffs reported in other regions, particularly in the United States.

Market Revenue and Leading Titles

In 2024, the European market saw continued growth in digital revenue and modest shifts in platform revenue distribution. Mobile gaming captured the largest share, while console revenue experienced a slight decrease. PC and streaming services grew gradually. Among console releases, the most played titles included EA FC 25, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, and EA FC 24.

Popular PC games included Helldivers 2, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, and Command & Conquer Generals. Mobile gaming was dominated by Coin Master, Royal Match, and Brawl Stars. On PC and console, 12.3 percent of released games targeted audiences over 18 years, while 67.3 percent were aimed at children aged three to 12. Parents continue to play a significant role in purchase decisions, with 80 percent of parents choosing games for their children based on age ratings.

European Game Industry Shows Growth

Children and In-Game Spending

Parental monitoring of children’s in-game spending remains high in Europe. Approximately 95 percent of parents supervise how their children spend money in games, and 76 percent report that their children do not purchase in-game content. Children’s spending in games dropped by 21 percent compared to 2023, reflecting a decline in direct purchases despite the ongoing popularity of platforms like Roblox.

Future Outlook for European Gaming

The European gaming industry demonstrated resilience in 2024, with growth in both player numbers and revenue, alongside modest workforce expansion. Digital distribution continues to dominate, and mobile platforms remain a key driver of revenue. The industry is expected to continue developing steadily, supported by positive player engagement and stable employment trends.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many people play video games in Europe?

In 2024, the total number of video game players in Europe reached 128.3 million, representing 54 percent of the population aged six to 64. Among adults over 18, 75 percent play video games.

What is the average age of gamers in Europe?

The average age of a European gamer is 31 years, while the average age of female gamers is slightly higher at 32 years.

Which European country has the highest percentage of gamers?

France has the highest gaming penetration in Europe, with 63 percent of the population actively playing video games.

What platforms generate the most revenue in Europe?

Mobile platforms lead the European gaming market, accounting for 44 percent of revenue in 2024. Console revenue represents 38 percent, PC 15 percent, and streaming services four percent.

How has children’s spending in games changed?

Children’s spending on games in Europe declined by 21 percent in 2024 compared to 2023, with most parents actively monitoring or restricting in-game purchases.

What are the most popular types of games in Europe?

On mobile, puzzle games and strategy games are popular, while console players prefer racing, sports, and adventure titles. On PC, adventure, shooter, and strategy games dominate.

How many people work in the European gaming industry?

As of the end of 2024, 116,419 people were employed in European game companies, with women making up 24.9 percent of the workforce.

Here’s a complete list of all the games mentioned: