ESA Power of Play 2025 report highlights the benefits of gaming

The Entertainment Software Association (ESA), along with its global partners, has released its massive 2025 Global Power of Play study. Based on a survey of over 24,000 players across 21 countries, the report paints a clear picture of why people game and the positive impacts it has on their social, emotional, and mental well-being.

While “fun” remains the number one reason people play video games (cited by 66% of respondents), the study (via Engadget) shows that mental health benefits are almost equally important. A huge 58% of players globally use games for stress relief, with 77% agreeing that gaming helps them feel less stressed and 70% reporting it reduces anxiety. Furthermore, nearly two-thirds of players credit games with assisting them to feel less lonely by connecting them with others.

The benefits extend beyond mental health into real-world skill development. The report found that a majority of players believe gaming improves their creativity (77%), problem-solving skills (76%), and ability to work in a team (74%). For many, this has had a direct impact on their lives, with 43% of players saying that gaming has influenced their academic or career path.

Gaming has also solidified its place as a central social platform. This is particularly true for younger players (aged 16-35), where 67% reported having met a good friend, spouse, or significant other through playing video games. The report also continues to shatter old stereotypes about who a “gamer” is. The average age of a global player is now 41, and the gender split is nearly even at 51% male and 48% female. Those interested in reading the detailed report can do so HERE.

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KitGuru says: To you, what was the most surprising data in this report?

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