A large international academic survey of 12,847 active gamers aged 16 and over in 12 countries found that video games provide Canadian and international players with a range of social and emotional benefits in addition to entertainment.

The study called The power of play was sponsored by the Entertainment Software Association of Canada (ELA) in collaboration with the Entertainment Software Association and video game trade associations in Australia, Europe and South Korea.

Main motive: the joy of playing

According to the press release, “The survey showed that video games provide Canadian and international gamers with a range of social and emotional benefits in addition to entertainment.” Data collected from Canadians shows that fun is the top reason people play video games (74%), but they play also for a variety of other reasons, including to keep their minds awake (43%) and because games allow them to discover new worlds and new ideas (28%).

For Canadians: promoting mental health, better stress management

Domestically, 29% of Canadian respondents also said they play video games to maintain or improve their mental health, a higher proportion than the global average (24%).

“More than three-quarters of Canadian respondents (76%) said playing video games helps them manage stress (71% globally), and 63% of them also said playing video games helps them deal with their fears (61% worldwide). ).

Among other mental health benefits, 67% of Canadian gamers agree that playing video games helps them feel happier (64% globally), while 54% say playing video games helps them get through difficult times in their lives helped (52% worldwide).”

All of this data supports previous studies that overall indicate that video games bring people together and strengthen community. For Jayson Hilchie, President and CEO of the ALD, “this global survey shows that the social and emotional benefits of video games are felt by a diverse base of gamers around the world who play video games for fun, relaxation and to reduce stress.” . They are increasingly sharing this experience online with their family and a growing community of friends.”

For more details, the following fact sheet summarizes the key benefits of video games with supporting numbers.