Global report confirms social, mental and emotional benefits of video gameplay

Brussels, October 10, 2023 - Today, the global video games industry has come together to publish the “Power of Play" report, providing important insights into video games' social and emotional benefits.

Published to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Day, nearly 13,000 players (aged 16 and older) across 12 countries - Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Poland, South Korea, Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States - were surveyed for the report which has been jointly commissioned by Video Games Europe and associations in Australia, Canada, South Korea and the USA.

The Power of Play Report includes the following insights into why people play video games:

• To have fun: 69% globally; 68% in Europe
• For stress relief: 71% globally; 68% in Europe
• To avoid isolation and loneliness: 55% globally; 53% in Europe
• As an outlet to help deal with everyday challenges: 64% globally; 67% in Europe

Besides having a positive impact on mental health, video games were also shown to have other benefits with surveyed players believing that it has improved their:

• Creativity: 73% globally; 73% in Europe
• Problem-solving skills: 69% globally; 66% in Europe
• Cognitive Skills: 69% globally, 68% in Europe
• Teamwork and collaboration skills: 69% globally, 68% Europe

Important benefits in resilience, communication, language skills, adaptability, interest in learning STEM subjects, conflict resolution, and inclusion and cultural awareness were also identified by respondents to the survey.

“At their core, video games are designed to be fun,” says Simon Little, CEO of Video Games Europe. “But they also have the power to foster connection, community and creativity, which are vital to maintaining positive mental health. Today’s “Power of Play” report, released to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Day, reminds us that, when enjoyed as part of a balanced lifestyle, the impact of video games is overwhelmingly positive and universal.”

For further information or to see country-specific reports, please contact:

Players are at the heart of what we do.
Since 1998, Video Games Europe has ensured that the voice of a responsible games ecosystem is heard and understood, that its creative and economic potential is supported and celebrated, and that players around the world continue to enjoy great video game playing experiences. Our membership comprises national trade associations in 18 countries across Europe which represent in turn thousands of developers and publishers at national level. Video Games Europe also has as direct members the leading European and international video game companies. For more information, visit https://www.videogameseurope.eu