Game On! Single-Player Games Remain the Preferred Choice for Many Gamers
The Bias Towards Single-Player Gaming
Fifty-three percent of gamers prefer single-player games to multiplayer setups, according to the latest findings from research company MIDiA. This study analyzed gaming preferences by platform and age, offering strategic recommendations based on hard data.
A Growing Trend: Single-Player Gaming
Despite the dominance of online games and in-game purchases, single-player games remain the preferred choice for most users. The over-55s are the biggest fans, with 74% of respondents in this age group choosing single-player options. The 45-54 age group follows at 65%, ahead of the 35-44 group at 49%, and the 25-34 group at 41%.
A Target Market for Developers and Publishers
Only the 16-19 and 20-24 age groups place online player-vs-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," the report noted.
The Evolution of Video Games: From Multiplayer to Single-Player
The findings highlight 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, video games are gradually becoming more solitary experiences.
What’s Gone Wrong with Multiplayer Games?
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’ "Marvel’s Avengers" and Electronic Arts/BioWare’s "Anthem" both failed to capture the interest of gamers. These failures not only left a bitter taste among consumers but also cost millions in development.
Conclusion
The study underscores the importance of catering to the demand for single-player games. For developers and publishers, this means embracing a more solitary approach to game design, embracing the opportunities presented by virtual reality, and recognizing the value of single-player experiences. By doing so, they can capitalize on the growing trend towards single-player gaming and attract a larger segment of the gaming market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the preferred choice of gamers: single-player or multiplayer games?
A: According to MIDiA’s findings, 53% of gamers prefer single-player games to multiplayer setups.
Q: Which age group prefers single-player games the most?
A: The over-55s are the biggest fans, with 74% of respondents in this age group choosing single-player options.
Q: Why do young gamers prefer multiplayer game play?
A: Only the 16-19 and 20-24 age groups place online player-vs-player gaming at the top of their preferences, at 40% and 43%, respectively.
Q: What can developers and publishers learn from these findings?
A: The study recommends targeting the 25+ age group with single-player games, capitalizing on the trend towards solitary gaming experiences, and avoiding the risks associated with online game development.