Gaming Topics

Kids Don’t Want New Games for Christmas Anymore

A new survey suggests that kids in the US want in-game currency and subscriptions instead.

So, in my past stories, I’ve chatted about cool gaming stuff, and you can find those links at the end here.

But today, I’m diving into something different: seems like kids these days aren’t crazy about new games. Instead, they’re all about in-game cash and subscriptions.

In a recent survey by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), it came out that kids in the US are eyeing gaming stuff for Christmas, but here’s the kicker: most of them prefer in-game cash or game subscriptions over actual games. Talk about a shift in trends!

Online multiplayer games are all the rage among the kiddos, and subscription services have been climbing up the popularity ladder in recent years.

The ESA, a big deal in the US gaming scene, got the lowdown by interviewing over 500 kids aged 10 to 17. And guess what? Gaming gifts are topping their Christmas wish lists, beating out gift cards, clothes, tech gear — everything else.

So, here’s the scoop from the ESA’s survey: a whopping 72% of these cool kids are all about game-related gifts this Christmas. And what’s the hot ticket item? Game subscriptions take the cake, with 39% of the crew wanting in on that action. Right behind that, 38% have their sights set on snagging a brand-new console.

Then, you’ve got 32% gunning for game accessories, and 29% itching for in-game cash. But here’s the kicker — only 22% are angling for physical games. That’s a bit surprising, considering how much these used to rock just a few years back.

The survey shows some major shifts in the gaming world. Consoles are still cool, no doubt. But those live service games and subscription deals? They’re making serious waves. Take Fortnite and Roblox, for instance — they’ve got a boatload of kids and teens hooked.

55% of Roblox players are 12 or younger, as per a 2022 SEC filing. That’s wild! Even after Roblox said it was aiming more for older players in 2021, the younger crowd is still going strong. Maybe that’s why in-game cash is such a hit — it’s likely splurged on cool skins and stuff.

Final Words

Kids are all about those game subscription services. That makes sense, right? Things like PS Plus and Xbox Game Pass have been climbing the charts lately, offering a massive library of games.

These younger gamers might not have had a crack at all those games in the subscription yet, making these services a goldmine compared to just one new game.

I think I have empathy for this behavioral shift, as I expect the same.

If you enjoy my posts and would like to stay updated on the latest gaming-related news, technology advancements, design trends, and social media insights, I invite you to follow my profile.

I will continue to share my thoughts and insights on a wide range of topics in the world of entertainment and technology.

With that being said, thank you for reading my post, and have a good one.

Here are my previous collections.

Here’s What I Wrote in July 2023.

Here’s What I Wrote in June 2023

Here’s What I Wrote in May 2023

Here’s What I Wrote in April 2023

Here’s What I Wrote in March 2023

I provided an update on my last month.

Here are a few of my previous stories relating to interesting gaming topics I believe you will enjoy:

References

U.S. Children Say They Want Video Games More Than Anything Else This Holiday Season.

Survey Shows US Kids Want Game Subscriptions and In-Game Currency for Christmas More Than Actual Games.

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About Me

I write articles in my field covering gaming, film-making, social media, and design. I am also a YouTuber. Thank you for subscribing to my account to get notifications when I post on Medium. I also created a new website to share my content for free and promote stories of writers contributing to my publications on Medium. I also have a Substack newsletter. Let’s connect on Twitter and LinkedIn.

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