A majority of children aged 10 to 17 want video games as gifts for the Christmas season, according to findings from a new survey.
The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) found that 76% of kids in the US have video games at the top of their holiday wish lists. Video games remain at the top among boys (85%) and girls (67%).
Breaking down the specifics, 47% of kids said they wished for video game consoles, 43% said game subscription services, 41% said video game gear or console games, and 38% said in-game currency, the ESA survey found.
How Does the Survey Results Compare To Other Polls?
The recent ESA survey findings echo demographic data shared in a report titled "2024 Essential Facts About the US Video Game Industry." In that analysis, researchers found that 24% of video game players in the US are under the age of 18. It also found that, on average, 82% of Gen Z boys and 68% of Gen Z girls played video games weekly.
Gen Z individuals are those born between 1997 and 2012 and is the first generation to grow up with smartphones, the internet, and social media as an integral part of their lives.
It appears possible for kids to get their Christmas wishes this year. The ESA study found that US adults planning on purchasing video game gifts this year may spend an average of $312 for themselves or others for the holidays.
Which Video Games Are Best for Kids?
There are plenty of video games available in the market, but not all are age-appropriate or child-friendly. Astro Bot is one of the most popular child-friendly video games this year. The game is a colorful platformer that has players controlling the little robot boots of Astro as they jump, bop, and explore dozens of plans in a mission to rescue their lost robot friends.
Mouse & Crane is another great video game. This cooperative puzzle game features three friends who live in the harbor. The aim of the game is to collect junk materials and use them to make useful tools to fix machines in the harbor. It's a great option for young gamers.
