Total consumer spending on games topped $60B in the US in 2025
The Entertainment Software Association’s 2026 Essential Facts About the US Video Game Industry report reveals significant growth in the gaming market and player base. According to data compiled by Circana and surveyed by YouGov in February 2026, consumer spending on video games reached $60.7 billion in the US during 2025, with nearly all revenue ($52.3 billion) coming from game content, while hardware accounted for $5.4 billion and accessories for $2.95 billion. This total represents a minor decline from 2021’s record spending of $61.7 billion, yet video games continue to outpace consumer spending on movies, television, and music combined.
The gaming audience has expanded significantly, with 212.3 million Americans—representing 67% of the population between ages 5 and 90—playing video games for at least one hour per week. This marks a 3% increase compared to 2024, adding 7.2 million new players to the market. The penetration extends even further, with 83% of US households reporting use of at least one gaming device in the past year, including smartphones, PCs, consoles, and VR systems.
The player demographics have continued to mature, with the average gamer now 37 years old and half of all players aged 35 or older. Gender distribution among active players remains relatively balanced at 53% male and 46% female. Active gamers invest considerable time in their hobby, averaging 12 hours per week, with 27% of this group playing 16 or more hours weekly. The report demonstrates gaming has become increasingly mainstream across age groups and household demographics.