ESA report suggests gaming reduces stress, anxiety across the world

The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) published a report this week detailing the benefits gamers report around the world. The Power of Play 2023 Global Report collects findings from global surveys as well as several academic studies to detail the positive benefits to gamers around the world. The report’s findings show that gamers near-universally find gaming to have positive effects on their life, including reducing stress, assisting with feelings of isolation and helping them have fun.

More than half of the players report that games have helped them through difficult times in their lives, as well as providing them with an outlet for daily challenges. While there are some variations across regions, this remains consistent across most of them. Players also report having gained multiple skills while playing, including improved problem-solving and communication skills.