Most gamers prefer single-player games

The majority of gamers prefer single-player games, according to a recent study by MIDiA. This preference for solo experiences could well redefine the future of gaming.

According to the latest research from MIDiA*, 53% of gamers prefer single-player games to multiplayer setups. This study, which analyses gaming preferences by platform and age, offers strategic recommendations based on hard data. The results show that, despite the dominance of online games and in-game purchases, single-player games remain the preferred choice for most gamers.

While the majority of respondents prefer single-player games, the over-55s are the biggest fans, at 74%. This trend is clearly more popular with the older generations, since the 45-54 age group follows at 65%, ahead of the 35-44 age group at 49% and the 25-34 age group at 41%. Only the 16-19 and 20-24 age groups place online player versus player gaming at the top of their preferences, at 40% and 43% respectively.

For the researchers, this makes young gamers a target market. “The 25+ gamers are the lowest-hanging fruit to target with single-player games,” explains the report.

MIDiA’s research highlights an important trend in the video game industry. While online games continue to dominate the market, the preference for single-player games offers a unique opportunity for developers and publishers. With the development of virtual reality games, video games are gradually becoming more solitary experiences.

The MIDiA study points out that many studios, initially known for their single-player games, have been pushed into the online gaming market, often with questionable results. For example, Crystal Dynamics with Marvel’s Avengers and EA’s BioWare with Anthem both failed to capture the interest of gamers. These failures not only cost millions in development, but also left a bitter taste with consumers. – AFP Relaxnews

*The survey data comes from MIDiA Research’s consumer survey first quarter 2024 and first quarter 2023, conducted in the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, Germany, France, Poland, Turkiye and South Africa.