More than 1.3 billion people play video games, making it one of the world’s most popular hobbies. Young adults are still the core of the gaming community, but there has also been an increase in older adults who engage in the activity.
While all these people share the passion for gaming, they don’t necessarily play the same games. For some, the joy is in playing action-packed games with emphasis on skill and graphics, while for others, it’s all about simplicity and relaxation.
These preferences are often determined by factors such as age, gender, and lifestyle. With that said, let’s look at which genres people of different ages and genders find most appealing and why.
ONLINE GAMES
Ever since the emergence of the internet, there’s been a demand for replicating the brick-and-mortar casino experience online. The first gambling platforms were simple and offered just a couple of games, but today, they host libraries featuring hundreds, or even thousands, of different titles.
These platforms attract large numbers of players, most of whom are young adults. While the exact numbers vary by country, a typical online casino player is on the younger side (18-35).
One of the reasons for this may be the fact that younger people are more used to online platforms, while older generations still tend to visit land-based venues out of habit. Younger players are also more likely to try alternative formats, such as a sweepstake casino. These platforms operate similarly to traditional web-based casinos and offer real-world prizes, all without requiring players to deposit real money.
When it comes to gender, the gap between male and female players is getting smaller, but the hobby is still predominantly male. In some countries, the difference is just a few percent, while in others, men still make up a clear majority.
PUZZLE AND CASUAL GAMES
Puzzle games may not be popular in the eSports world, but they’re arguably one of the most universal genres in gaming. From titles like Candy Crush to crosswords and word searches, the appeal is broad and enduring.
Puzzle and casual games enjoy popularity across all generations, but they shine brightest with players aged 35 and above. Older players aren’t necessarily looking for games that require a lot of skill or hours of practice. For them, it’s all about the titles that are easy to pick up and can be enjoyed in short bursts.
These games attract a slight female majority but remain popular with men as well. They’re extremely accessible and can be played on smartphones, making them appealing to players who may not fall under the “gamer” category in the traditional sense.
Titles belonging to this genre are seen as the perfect way to pass time, with their popularity reaching peak levels during the 2020 pandemic, hitting 5.7 billion downloads.
ACTION/SHOOTER GAMES
Action and shooter games are exactly what many people picture when they think of gaming. Combining fast-paced action, skill-based mechanics, and high-quality visuals, they deliver the experience that is exactly what many gamers are looking for. Popular titles include Call of Duty, Battlefield, CS:GO, Fortnite, and more.
These games tend to be more popular among young adults, with an average player falling in the 18-35 age range. This makes sense as the games belonging to this category require a lot of commitment and a high level of skills.
For many young adults, action and shooter games also serve as a way to socialize, as they often play with their friends using in-game voice chat.
The genre typically attracts male players, but female participation is steadily growing. Developers are being more inclusive when it comes to character options, and there are plenty of female content creators who help bring new audiences to action and shooter games.
ROLE-PLAYING GAMES
Another extremely popular genre of video games is role-playing games (RPGs). Both single-player RPGs and MMOs have been dominating the industry for years and continue to attract millions of players worldwide. They’re best known for deep stories, expansive worlds, and customizable characters.
In terms of demographics, RPGs are more balanced than other genres. They attract players of all ages, but there are differences when it comes to sub-genres. For example, younger players often lean toward competitive and skill-heavy MMORPGs. Older players, on the other hand, prefer single-player games due to their slow pace and emphasis on the story.
When it comes to gender, RPGs have a more even split compared to some other genres. With the focus typically being on the story and character development, they appeal to both male and female players.
SPORTS AND RACING GAMES
Sports and racing games have had their place in the gaming world ever since the first computers were made. Even the first-ever video game, Tennis for Two, could, in theory, fall under this genre.
These games have gone a long way since the early days of gaming, and now, it’s almost difficult to differentiate between a virtual match and a live event. The best examples include EA FC (formerly FIFA), NBA 2K, Gran Turismo, and Forza Horizon.
Age trends show strong popularity among younger and middle-aged players. These are mostly sports fans who follow the same team in real life. These games give them an opportunity to experience the same thrill players feel on the pitch or racetrack and compete with their friends.
When it comes to gender, sports and racing games still have a predominantly male audience, though the gender gap has been narrowing in recent years. For example, since the 2024 edition of EA FC, female athletes have been included in the game’s Ultimate Team mode for the first time in the series’ history.
CONCLUSION
Gaming is a hobby that suits absolutely everyone, and a part of its charm is that there are so many genres, and every player can find something that works for them. Not only this, but popular titles now often come with several modes, each designed for different playstyles. Therefore, regardless of someone’s age, gender, or interests, there’s always a way to enjoy gaming, and that’s one of the things that keeps it one of the most enduring forms of entertainment in the world.
