More Gaming Subs, Less Games US Kids Want This Christmas

Tis the season to be jolly as the Holiday Season is right around the corner, and gaming devs have lined up their seasonal content for players to enjoy this December. And it seems dear Ol’ Saint Nick may have to grab a few more gaming-related gifts this year, as a new study by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) revealed just what American kids want this Christmas.

The study interviewed American adults and children between the ages of 10 and 17 to gauge their interest in what they want for Christmas this year. While the answers were varied, gaming-related gifts were at the top of most kids’ lists amongst girls and boys, and the adults responded similarly when asked.

According to the ESA’s study, 72% of US kids have requested gaming-related gifts from their parents this Holiday Season. Regarding what exactly they have on their Christmas Wish list, 70% asked for cash and gift cards, 66% wanted clothing and accessories, and electronics and tech-related gifts were on the lists of 62% of kids.

Gaming-wise, subscriptions are the most requested Christmas gift, with 39% of kids wanting them, followed by hardware, as 38% want a gaming console and 32% ask for accessories and peripherals. While in-game currency is closely behind at 29%; however, it’s clear that kids aren’t as interested in physical gaming releases, which 22% of kids request.

And the adults have responded accordingly to these top requests as they intend to spend at least $485 on gaming-related gifts this Holiday Season. This doesn’t come as much of a surprise according to ESA President and CEO Stan Pierre-Louis, who added that “more than 212 million Americans play video games regularly, so it comes as no surprise that games are at the top of this year’s wish lists.

Whether a family is getting a new console, updating their controllers and headsets, or adding to their library with new games and expansion packs, we know video games are a great tool for families to play together and connect during the holiday season and beyond.

The ESA has advised parents to shop mindfully for their gaming kids this Christmas, especially when buying video games digitally or physically. Some of the steps they provided include viewing the ESRB’s age and content rating of gaming releases, ensuring that Parental Controls are enabled, and having positive behavior when online.