A new survey from the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) shows that gaming continues to dominate holiday wish lists for children in the United States. The report highlights a strong shift toward digital spending, with nearly half of kids asking for in-game currency as their preferred gift. The findings reinforce ongoing trends in how younger players engage with games and the types of experiences they value most.
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In-Game Currency Tops Children’s Wish Lists
Among more than 700 children surveyed between the ages of 5 and 17, 43% said they plan to ask for in-game currency this Christmas. Consoles remain a significant interest at 39%, while 37% of respondents want physical video games. The ESA notes that video games are among the top three requested gifts this year, continuing the medium’s momentum as a primary form of entertainment for younger audiences.
The survey also suggests that gaming is becoming increasingly tied to family activities. More than half of the children surveyed said they want to play more games with their parents, with interest especially high among younger kids aged 5 to 7, where the figure rises to 73%.
Adult Spending Shows Gaming’s Broader Appeal
The research extends beyond children’s preferences. Out of more than 1,100 adults surveyed, one third said they intend to purchase game-related items this holiday season. Most of these adults will be giving gifts to someone else, with 35% buying gaming products for their children and 28% shopping for a spouse or partner.
Adults plan to spend an average of $500 on gaming gifts, though one in four expect to spend under $100. Parents specifically anticipate an average spend of $737 on their children, while about half plan to stay below $300. These spending patterns point to continued interest in gaming across age groups, both as a personal hobby and as a shared experience.
Gaming as a Shared Family Activity
ESA president and CEO Stan Pierre-Louis emphasized the ongoing role of gaming as a medium that connects people. He noted that more than 205 million Americans play games every week and highlighted the importance of gaming in facilitating family interaction. The survey results suggest that children value not only the games themselves but also the time spent playing together with family members.
As digital ecosystems expand, including areas like esports and web3-enabled experiences, the holiday demand for gaming-related products shows how embedded gaming has become in entertainment culture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why are so many kids asking for in-game currency?
In-game currency allows players to purchase cosmetic items, upgrades or additional content, making it a flexible and personalized gift for a wide range of games.
Are video game consoles still popular gifts?
Yes. According to the ESA survey, 39% of kids are asking for a console, showing that hardware remains an important part of holiday gaming wish lists.
How much are parents planning to spend on gaming gifts?
Parents expect to spend an average of $737 on gaming gifts for their children, though about half plan to spend less than $300.
Do kids want physical games or digital items more?
Both are in demand, but digital items lead. While 37% of kids want physical games, 43% are prioritizing in-game currency.
Are adults buying gaming items for themselves or others?
Most adults planning to buy gaming items are purchasing gifts for others, primarily their children or their spouse or partner.
Is gaming becoming a family activity?
Yes. More than half of children surveyed want to play more games with their parents, with the highest interest among kids aged 5 to 7.
