Mike Bantick
Monday, 27 October 2008 16:53
Opinion and Analysis
Page 3 of 4
Generally, gamers were more likely to be involved with newer technologies such as streaming media, downloading TV shows or movies, using social networks or chatting online.
All in all, it seems the line between an average Australian and a gaming Australian is getting harder to delineate.
The IA9 study estimates that by 2014 the average age of gamers will be the same average age as non gamers. As close as 2012 and we will see an even even split between female and male gamers.
Furthermore many of the long set attitudes about games seem to be turning around.
From a 35 year old female parent and gamer “I think [games] can be a lot of fun. They can relieve stress and keep minds active. I think the amount of time spent on them can be damaging but if it's monitored in children and self monitored in adults then they can bring lots of enjoyment.”
And from a non-gaming 42 year old female parant: “They make my kids happy and so long as they're not too violent or too provocative, then I'm happy for my kids to play them.”
The gaming industry is burgeoning, growing annually at more than 15 percent to an A$1.3 billion dollar market. From the IA9 survey, it looks as if the hearts of the general public, but there are still a number of challenges still to be addressed.
Read on.
