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.