The Entertainment Software Association recently surveyed kids (ages 10-17) for the upcoming holiday season, revealing the not-so-shocking news that video games top their holiday wish lists.
Video games were the top of the list for 76% of kids, more than clothes, money, or even smartphones.
Boys (85%) were more like than girls (67%) to wish for games the most, which reflects the demographics from the big 2024 Video Game Industry Report the ESA released earlier this year.
The survey included what type of games or hardware or accessories, and there’s not much difference, with consoles leading the pack at 47%, followed by subscription services at 43%, the latter of which isn’t exactly thrilling to unwrap. In fact, console games (41%) are just as desired as in-game currency, such as Robux or V-Bucks (38%), and gaming gear, such as headsets (41%).
“Video games and video game technology have evolved quite a bit since today’s parents were kids themselves, but the fun and joy created by gameplay for families remains the same,” said Stanley Pierre-Louis, president and CEO, Entertainment Software Association. “Parents see video games as more than simply a gift. With 83% of U.S. parents who play saying they play video games with their kids, games serve as a powerful tool for families to connect with one another, especially during the holidays.”
Are video games (and accessories) at the top of your kids’ wish lists? Check out the ESA’s Guide to Holiday Gifting after the survey, which follows three simple steps: age rating, parental controls, and household rules.
