Market (Overall)·Updated Mar 17, 2026 by Entertainment Software Association
The U.S. gaming industry generated $60.4 billion in total sales in 2021, with 67% of players participating in in-game purchases.
Approximately 215.5 million Americans, or 66% of the population, play video games at least weekly.
Pandemic-era engagement levels have stabilized, with 90% of players maintaining or increasing their playtime since the peak of the pandemic.
The player base is gender-balanced at 48% female and 52% male, with an average age of 33 years old.
Smartphones are the primary gaming device for 70% of players, though most users engage with multiple platforms.
Social connectivity is a core driver of the industry, as 83% of players game with others and 46% have formed significant personal relationships through the medium.
97% of Americans perceive video games as beneficial for stress relief and the development of cognitive and teamwork skills.
The U.S. gaming industry generated $60.4 billion in total sales in 2021, with 67% of players participating in in-game purchases.
Approximately 215.5 million Americans, or 66% of the population, play video games at least weekly.
Pandemic-era engagement levels have stabilized, with 90% of players maintaining or increasing their playtime since the peak of the pandemic.
The player base is gender-balanced at 48% female and 52% male, with an average age of 33 years old.
Smartphones are the primary gaming device for 70% of players, though most users engage with multiple platforms.
Social connectivity is a core driver of the industry, as 83% of players game with others and 46% have formed significant personal relationships through the medium.
97% of Americans perceive video games as beneficial for stress relief and the development of cognitive and teamwork skills.