Players are increasingly using games intentionally for specific goals such as stress relief, mental stimulation, and social bonding, recognizing substantial mental health benefits.

The ESA's 2025 Global Power of Play report reveals a major shift in how video games are viewed, evolving from mere entertainment to vital tools for personal wellness, skill-building, and social connection.

Gaming is now recognized as a mainstream activity that promotes mental health, education, and economic growth, helping to destigmatize its role in society.

The report highlights gaming as a powerful cultural and social force that fosters creativity, learning, and community, especially through its contributions to mental well-being and social engagement.

Gaming is widely normalized among adults, with the average gamer age at 41, and nearly equal gender representation, primarily on accessible mobile devices, making it a common daily activity.

Popular genres include action and puzzle games, and most players engage with gaming as a regular part of their lives, emphasizing its role as an everyday activity.

Family engagement in gaming is significant, with over half of players worldwide noting positive impacts on family relationships, and many parents actively playing with their children.

A majority of gamers report that gaming helps reduce stress (77%) and anxiety (70%), while about 64% feel it fosters social connection and alleviates loneliness.

Online gaming serves as an essential social space, especially for younger adults aged 16-35, helping to combat feelings of isolation and strengthen family ties.

Gaming is also linked to skill development, with 77% of players citing improvements in creativity, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability, which support educational and career growth.

Furthermore, many players see gaming as a productive activity that enhances real-world skills and supports their professional and educational development.

The report forecasts continued growth in therapeutic gaming and its deeper integration into educational settings and senior care to address mental health and cognitive decline.