Well there's been a few tests done and some results taken. Apart from 37% in the UK between the age group playing it's shown that 28% of the population in Spain and Finland are also active gamers. This includes game played on a console, handheld device or PC. It was also found that among Europeans gaming is a top common leisure plus there is some more interesting facts.

A piece of Nielsen research has shown that in the UK, 37 percent of those aged between 16 and 49 describe themselves as “active gamers,” defined as currently playing games on a console, handheld device or PC.

The report found that the same is true for 28 percent of the population in the same age range in Spain and Finland.

Included in the research was a rather dubious fact that 93 percent of those questioned across 15 countries in Europe recognised PEGI symbols.

Press Release:
Europeans Play Videogames For Fun, Relaxation And To Keep Fit Mentally

ISFE-Nielsen Research Shows Gaming As A Top Leisure Activity For Kids, Adults And Parents Across Europe

Brussels, Belgium, 27 May 2008 – ISFE, the Interactive Software Federation of Europe, today revealed new research findings that reflect the evolving trends among European videogame players. Across 15 markets, people between the ages of 16 and 49 said they spend nearly as much time gaming as they do watching TV or socializing with family and friends, and opt for gaming as a fun way to spend time while stimulating the imagination and staying mentally fit .

The results of the research project, conducted by Nielsen Games on behalf of ISFE, demonstrate the current make up of the European market for videogames. The findings put to rest some commonly held misperceptions about today’s gaming community.
| More
Register as a member to subscribe comments.
  • 0
    Woudo May 27, 08
    Wow.
    I expected it to be around 90%
    • -2
      Benedict May 28, 08
      I'd of thought 80%. Mabie it was last year but the population has decreased over the years.
  • 0
    Donnelly May 28, 08
    That age group, 16-49, is far too wide.
  • 0
    black doom May 28, 08
    Why? Please expand Donnelly.
    • 1
      Donnelly May 28, 08
      Do you think the number of 16 year old "active gamers" is any where near the number 49 year old "active gamers"?
      • 0
        black doom May 28, 08
        I would expect that their is probably not but it seems to me to be meant to indicate the amount of gamers in general society. Besides ages of active gamers are stretching out a lot these days.
  • 1
    Slumpy monkey May 28, 08
    Why is it that I always here about these so called "tests" but I am never taking part in them.
  • 0
    redneonfish May 28, 08
    If they asked 10-16 year olds, I reckon it'ld be much higher.
  • 0
    Distortion May 28, 08
    I bet the US is higher. I'm neither bragging nor complaining. Just my opinion and guess.

    Anyway, I agree, that age group seems a bit broad.

This news story is archived and is closed to comments now.