Forget Stereotypes: The Power of Play Report - Canada

The Power of Play report, released by the Entertainment Software Association of Canada in October 2025, provides a comprehensive analysis of the Canadian gaming landscape, challenging traditional stereotypes regarding player demographics and habits. The study, which surveyed 1,521 Canadians as part of a broader 12-country global analysis of 24,216 active players, highlights a highly diverse and engaged gaming population. Methodology for the study involved polling individuals aged 16 and older who play video games for at least one hour per week.

Key findings indicate that the Canadian gaming community is gender-balanced, with women accounting for 51% of the player base. Engagement is also evenly distributed across age groups, with 37% of players aged 35–54 and 35% aged 55 or older. Mobile devices have emerged as the dominant platform, serving as the primary choice for 52% of players, significantly outpacing consoles and virtual reality systems at 25% and computers at 22%. Regarding content preferences, Canadians show a strong affinity for puzzle games, with a 59% preference rate that exceeds the global average of 50%.

Beyond entertainment, the report underscores the role of gaming in mental wellness and social cohesion. A majority of players report that gaming serves as a vital outlet for stress relief (80%) and contributes to feelings of happiness (70%). Furthermore, 57% of respondents credit video games with helping them navigate difficult life periods. The social impact is equally significant, as 74% of players believe games unite people from diverse backgrounds, and 43% have formed meaningful personal relationships, including friendships and marriages, through gaming environments. These findings position video games as a central, positive component of modern Canadian social and personal life.