ESA: 67% Of American Households Playing Games

Some 67 percent of American households are playing video games, according to a new survey from Ipsos MediaCT and video game trade body Entertainment Software Association (ESA). As part of its annual Essential Facts About the Computer and Video Game Industry report, the ESA also reports that American gamers are "more social than ever", with 62 percent of them playing with oers in person for at least one hour a week. 48 percent of parents play video games with the children at least once a week, too. The ESA claims that game console-owning parents with children aged under 18 are present whenever their kids purchase/rent a game 93 percent of the time, and that their children receive parental permission before purchasing/renting a game 86 percent of the time. Those same parents say they always or sometimes monitor the games their kids play 97 percent of the time. That close attention could be affected by the idea that games are a positive part of their children's lives, a belief 64 percent of responding parents adhere to. The report also shares other findings like the average age of game players (34 years old), the average age of game buyers (40 years old), the percentage of female game players (40 percent), and the percentage of all games sold that are rated "E for Everyone" by the ESRB (48 percent). "Computer and video games are now available to consumers on every screen from smart phones to computers to flat screen televisions," says ESA president and CEO Michael D. Gallagher. "This enables millions of Americans enjoy the immersive storytelling, incredible graphics, and compelling plot lines." He adds, "These works of art are a fun and engaging way to bring people together, especially families who are playing video games together now more than ever."