Today, the global video games industry has come together to publish the “Power of of Play” report, providing important insights into video games’ social and emotional benefit. 13,000 video games players across 12 countries surveyed, with findings showing 71% of players turning to video games to relieve stress.
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 Kora and the USA.
The Power of Play Report includes the following insights into why people play video games:
- To have fun: 70% in the UK, 69% globally; 68% in Europe;
- For stress relief: 87% in the UK, 71% globally; 68% in Europe;
- To avoid isolation and loneliness: 68% in the UK, 55% globally; 53% 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: 75% in the UK, 73% globally; 73% in Europe;
- Problem-solving skills: 87% in the UK, 69% globally; 66% in Europe;
- Cognitive Skills: 73% in the UK, 69% globally, 68% in Europe,
- Teamwork and collaboration skills: 73% in the UK, 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.
An overwhelming 82% of gamers in the UK agreed that there is a video game for everyone, reiterating the message that playing video games really are for everyone.
Simon Little, CEO of Video Games Europe said:
“At their core, video games are designed to be fun. 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.”
Daniel Wood, Ukie Co-CEO said:
“Today’s findings show again that video games really can be a force for good. From helping people to relax, to building communities, and even developing new skills, video games are having a positive impact on tens of millions of people who play games on a regular basis. On Mental Health Awareness Day, we are encouraging people to explore the power of positive game play as part of a balanced lifestyle.”