The following insights have been taken from the GWI Gaming dataset. GWI Gaming is a GWI Core add-on that lets you explore the gaming habits of gamers - those who play games on at least one device - across selected Core markets. Any indexes mentioned in this article are compared to the 16-64 year old gaming population. Further details about GWI Gaming can be found by clicking here.
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Gaming's Dual Role: A Hub for Socialising and Skill Development
Gaming has emerged as a significant social platform, with 41% of gamers agreeing that it serves as an effective way to make friends and socialise. For many, gaming offers a communal experience, where players can connect with others across the globe, build relationships, and foster a sense of belonging within virtual worlds. Additionally, 36.6% of gamers see gaming as a valuable tool for learning new skills. Through gameplay, individuals are developing a range of abilities, from strategic thinking and problem-solving to teamwork and communication. This data highlights how gaming has evolved beyond just entertainment, offering both social and educational benefits to a diverse and growing audience.
GWI Gaming, Q2 2024. 139k gamers aged 16-64.
For more insight on the role of gaming in society, you can use this question on the platform.
Generational Divide in Gaming Content Consumption
A large portion of Gen Z gamers — 69.7% — report that they primarily obtain information and content related to gaming through social media platforms. This reliance on social media reflects the habits of a digitally native generation that is deeply engaged with platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter for updates on game releases, tutorials, live streams, reviews, and gaming communities.
In contrast, only 46.3% of Gen X gamers turn to social media for gaming content. This generational gap suggests that Gen X gamers may be more accustomed to sourcing information from traditional or alternative means, such as gaming websites, blogs, forums, or even gaming magazines. For them, social media may not serve as the primary outlet for gaming-related updates, reflecting different content consumption behaviours and a less immersive approach to social platforms.
This divergence illustrates how each generation navigates the gaming world differently, with Gen Z embracing the immediacy and community-driven aspects of social media, while Gen X may maintain a stronger connection to long-established, less interactive sources of gaming information.
GWI Gaming, Q2 2024. 139k gamers aged 16-64.
For more insight on gaming info & content sources, you can use this question on the platform.