Market (Overall)·Updated Jun 25, 2026 by Newzoo
Gen Z and Millennials spend significantly more time gaming weekly, averaging 7 hours 20 minutes and 6 hours 30 minutes respectively, compared to just over 2 hours for Baby Boomers.
Platform spending habits are polarized by generation, with Gen Z allocating 77% of their gaming budget to mobile while Baby Boomers direct 73% of their spend toward PC.
Engagement with game-related content is higher among younger cohorts, as 67–71% of Gen Z and Millennials both play and watch games, compared to 44–51% for older generations.
Motivations for gaming diverge by age, with younger players prioritizing competition, socializing, and achievement, while older players primarily seek relaxation.
The metaverse is a significant growth area, with 70% of Gen Z and 63% of Millennials anticipating increased time spent in virtual worlds.
Persona segmentation shows Gen Z is dominated by 'Ultimate' and 'Community' gamers, whereas older cohorts are characterized as 'Time-Fillers' or 'Bargain Buyers'.
Gen Z and Millennials spend significantly more time gaming weekly, averaging 7 hours 20 minutes and 6 hours 30 minutes respectively, compared to just over 2 hours for Baby Boomers.
Platform spending habits are polarized by generation, with Gen Z allocating 77% of their gaming budget to mobile while Baby Boomers direct 73% of their spend toward PC.
Engagement with game-related content is higher among younger cohorts, as 67–71% of Gen Z and Millennials both play and watch games, compared to 44–51% for older generations.
Motivations for gaming diverge by age, with younger players prioritizing competition, socializing, and achievement, while older players primarily seek relaxation.
The metaverse is a significant growth area, with 70% of Gen Z and 63% of Millennials anticipating increased time spent in virtual worlds.
Persona segmentation shows Gen Z is dominated by 'Ultimate' and 'Community' gamers, whereas older cohorts are characterized as 'Time-Fillers' or 'Bargain Buyers'.