For Gen Z, Playing Games and Being a Gamer Aren’t the Same

Nearly every young person plays video games today. In fact, YPulse’s Gaming data shows 98% of 13-39-year-olds play video games in some capacity. But being considered a gamer is a completely different story. It’s easy to use the term interchangeably with playing video games. But there’s a distinction between self-identified gamers and everyone else who plays casually. For brands, understanding that difference means knowing what being a “gamer” really means to young consumers—and how to reach them on the devices and the platforms where they play.  YPulse’s Gaming survey asks 13-39-year-olds about their gaming habits, identities, and behaviors to better understand what being a “gamer” means to young consumers today. Our data shows gamers are often more invested in gaming culture, spend more time playing, and engage with the industry in ways most casual players don’t:   YPulse’s Gaming data shows the majority of Gen Z and Millennials (71%) identify as gamers. That’s a lot of young consumers—but it’s far lower than the 98% who play video or mobile...