ExpressVPN reveals that more Millennials than Gen Z admitted to spending a whole day gaming. This revelation is no surprise since the gaming industry has significantly increased in popularity. This article delves deeper into the study and examines the reasons behind the findings.
The Study
ExpressVPN surveyed 1,000 Americans and 1,000 British aged between 16 and 55, comprising an equal number of Millennials and Gen Zers. The results showed that 68% of Millennials in their 30s and 40s admitted to gaming daily, while only 58% of Gen Zers in their 20s reported the same. That is a surprising finding given that Gen Zers are often regarded as the generation that grew up with gaming and is more immersed in the gaming culture.
Reasons for the Findings
One possible explanation for the results is that Millennials are more likely to have developed a more profound attachment to gaming than Gen Zers. Many Millennials grew up playing video games as children, seeing its evolution, and gaming has been a part of their teen lives and above for longer. As a result, they may have a stronger affinity for the activity and are more likely to spend extended periods gaming.
Another possible explanation for the findings is that Millennials are more likely to have disposable income, which they can spend on gaming. Many Millennials are now in their 30s and have been working for a while, meaning they have more money to spend on their hobbies. Gaming can be an expensive hobby, especially considering the cost of purchasing the latest consoles or upgrading your PC. Millennials may have more financial resources to invest in their gaming setups, making it easier to spend extended gaming periods.
The study also found that most respondents reported playing games for over two hours daily. This finding is consistent across both generations, which indicates that gaming has become an integral part of the daily routine for many people. That can be attributed to the increased accessibility of mobile devices and the rise of online multiplayer games, allowing players to connect with others worldwide.
Impact on Society
The rise of gaming has had a significant impact on society, with many people now considering it a legitimate form of entertainment. Esports has also emerged as a growing industry, with professional gamers competing for lucrative prizes in tournaments worldwide. Additionally, gaming has become a social activity, with many gamers connecting with others online and building communities around shared interests.
However, the rise of gaming has also sparked concerns about addiction and the potential adverse effects of prolonged gaming. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified gaming addiction as a mental health disorder, and studies have shown that excessive gaming can lead to physical and mental health problems. It is, therefore, essential to balance gaming with other activities and ensure that it does not interfere with daily responsibilities.
Possible Reasons Gaming is Spreading Fast
Here are some of the reasons men and women love gaming:
Gaming as a Stress Reliever
One reason why people may be spending more time gaming is that it serves as a stress reliever. According to an article with gaming stats, 89% of respondents said that gaming helped them relieve stress. With the pandemic and other sources of stress in daily life, people may be turning to the game as a way to unwind and escape.
Differences Between Male and Female Gamers
The survey also found some differences between male and female gamers. Male gamers more emotionally invested were 43%, while female players were only 21%. The male respondents reported spending more time gaming daily than female respondents, who used it more as a pass time. These differences could be due to various factors, such as different game preferences or societal expectations around gender and gaming.
Impact of the Pandemic on Gaming
The pandemic has significantly impacted many aspects of life, including gaming. With more people staying at home and social distancing, gaming has become increasingly popular. This trend may continue even after the pandemic dissipates, as people have become more accustomed to gaming to connect with others and pass the time.
Gaming and Career Opportunities
Finally, it’s worth noting that gaming has also opened up new career opportunities for many people. Esports and streaming have become viable career paths for skilled gamers, and the industry is expected to continue growing in the coming years. As gaming becomes more mainstream, we may see more people pursuing careers in gaming-related fields. The survey highlighted that men were likelier to take gaming as a career than women.
Conclusion
The ExpressVPN survey provides valuable insights into the gaming habits of Millennials and Gen Zers. The findings suggest that Millennials are more likely to spend extended gaming periods, possibly due to their more profound attachment to the activity and financial resources. However, the rise of gaming has also raised concerns about addiction and the potential adverse effects on health and well-being. It is crucial to balance gaming and other activities and ensure that gaming does not become a harmful habit.