Scroll through this article and find out some interesting facts and figures about baby boomer gamers.
Gone are the days when gaming was considered a hobby exclusive to younger generations. Baby Boomers, those born between 1946 and 1964, are proving that age is no barrier when it comes to enjoying the world of video games. In fact, a whopping 42% of Baby Boomers are proud gamers, actively engaging with games on various platforms – from PCs and consoles to mobile devices – within the last six months.
A Slice of Leisure Time
You’ll be shocked to know but, surprisingly, gaming occupies a significant 10% of the entertainment leisure time for Baby Boomers. While watching broadcast TV still holds the top spot at 35%, gaming has firmly secured its place as a favorite pastime, beating out reading and other activities. What's even more interesting is that over half of Baby Boomer gamers are women, constituting a majority share at 53%. This statistic stands as the highest proportion of female gamers within any generation, underscoring the diverse appeal of gaming among Baby Boomers.
The average amount of time Baby Boomer gamers spend on their gaming adventures each week is about two and a half hours. While they thoroughly enjoy their gaming experiences, their willingness to spend money on games remains relatively low, with only 29% having made any in-game purchases across platforms in the last six months. In terms of gaming personas, a majority of Baby Boomers fit into the "time filler" category. These gamers tend to enjoy games more casually, often on mobile devices, using them to fill spare moments or during social events.
When it comes to gaming genres, Baby Boomers have their preferences. They tend to gravitate towards match, puzzle, and tabletop games more than other generations. These genres offer engaging challenges that align with their gaming preferences. However, that is not to say that all boomer gamers will enjoy the usual games for boomers, some, as we've pointed out in our "Some Boomer Gamers Adding the "Boom" to Gaming" article, play some pretty hardcore games!
Mobile Gaming on the Rise
Among the gaming platforms, mobile gaming reigns supreme among Baby Boomers, with 34% having indulged in gaming on their smartphones or tablets in the last six months. PC gaming follows closely behind, with consoles rounding out the list. The accessibility and convenience of mobile gaming make it a popular choice for this demographic.
A Multigenerational Connection
Gaming transcends generational boundaries, with Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers all finding unique ways to engage with gaming beyond just gameplay. Whether it's exploring virtual worlds, sharing gaming experiences with friends and family, or immersing themselves in the captivating narratives of video games, gaming fulfills a wide range of needs for all generations.
In conclusion, Baby Boomers have wholeheartedly embraced the world of gaming, shattering stereotypes and proving that age is no obstacle to enjoying the thrill of interactive entertainment. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it's clear that Boomer gamers will remain an essential part of the gaming community, bringing their unique perspectives and love for gaming to the virtual table. So, whether you're a Baby Boomer or part of a different generation, there's a game out there waiting for you to explore and enjoy.
