A recent survey by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) highlights the increasing cross-platform nature of gaming. Conducted with 2,703 U.S. adults and teens, the study reveals that 61% of gamers engage across multiple devices, underscoring the industry's growth and evolving dynamics.

Number of Platforms Played in the Past 3 Months

Cross-Platform Gaming

Gaming has cemented itself as a leading entertainment choice, second only to watching TV and movies at home. Among younger generations like Gen Z and Millennials, gaming surpasses traditional media as the top entertainment form. In the past three months, 65% of Americans aged 13 and older—approximately 182.7 million people—played video games.

The study highlights the dominance of mobile gaming, with 49% of gamers identifying it as their primary platform. This trend is driven by older casual gamers and female players. Meanwhile, hardcore gamers, who account for 18% of the gaming population, show a preference for consoles and PCs, with 91% of them playing on multiple platforms.

Most Preferred Geenres and Game Types Played on Primary Platform

Gamer Demographics and Habits

Gamers can be broadly categorized into three groups:

Hardcore Gamers (18%)

Primarily young Millennials (average age: 29).

Predominantly male (73%).

Average 42 hours of gaming weekly.

Highly engaged with new technologies like VR and cloud gaming.

Core Gamers (46%)

Less affluent and moderately engaged.

Represent 72.1 million U.S. gamers.

Casual Gamers (36%)

Tend to be older (average age: 41).

Least engaged, often preferring mobile platforms.

The survey also found that gaming habits peak during adolescence and early adulthood, tapering off as players age and face competing life priorities.

Gaming Lifecycle of Gamers Ages 13 Plus

Social and Technological Shifts

Gaming continues to be a social activity, with 68% of players engaging with others. Younger gamers are driving multiplayer experiences, while older players prefer solo gaming. Additionally, in-game communication tools are favored over third-party apps, emphasizing the importance of seamless interaction.

Looking forward, gamers anticipate a rise in live-service games and enhanced social features. With nearly 40% of leisure time devoted to gaming, players also consume related content, such as live streams and game videos, at significant rates.

Types of Gamers

Industry Growth and Future Prospects

The gaming industry shows strong momentum, with 64% of gamers planning to purchase new hardware within the next year. Peripheral devices, such as gaming headsets, are among the top planned purchases. While interest in virtual reality remains tempered by high costs, next-generation consoles, like the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, could drive market activity.

Digital gaming is also on the rise, with 69% of gamers preferring digital downloads over physical media. Subscription services are gaining traction, particularly among younger players, with 40% of gamers already subscribed to a service and 29% considering subscriptions in the next year.

The Way Gaamers Typically Pay

Challenges and Accessibility

Despite the industry's growth, affordability remains a concern, with console pricing cited as a barrier by 41% of non-console players. Accessibility and inclusivity are also priorities for players, with many expressing interest in features like colorblind-friendly graphics and broader representation in games.

The CTA’s survey underscores the dynamic and inclusive nature of gaming, driven by cross-platform engagement, social connectivity, and technological advancements. As the industry evolves, it continues to redefine entertainment and foster community among diverse audiences.

Source: GamesBeat