The US has more women gamers than men, according to a global study

The Entertainment Software Association’s (ESA) recent study reveals that more than half of US gamers are women (52%) and 22% are people aged 65 or older, challenging long-standing stereotypes of gamers as young, isolated men.

Teens and young adults between the ages of 16 and 24 made up the smallest group in America, only making up 9%.

The Power of Play report surveyed 24,216 gamers across 21 countries, ages 16 to 65+, and found that the average gamer worldwide is 41 years old.

Globally, the gender split among gamers is nearly even. Around 51% male and 48% female—and in some nations, women dominate the player base, such as Brazil (57%) and South Africa (58%).

The report attributes these findings to a broader definition of gaming, which includes console, PC, mobile, and tablet-based games like Wordle, Sudoku, and Solitaire. These accessible formats have made gaming a universal activity across ages and genders.

Participants also cited multiple benefits from gaming: 76% reported that it improved problem-solving skills, 50% noted that it enhanced their career or educational skills, and many reported that it reduced stress, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness.