Power of Play: Australia

What makes gamers around the world tick, and how do they differ from country to country? These questions and many more are addressed in the Power of Play study, which was conducted and published by industry associations. In addition to global evaluations, the report also compiles the most important answers to essential questions at the level of the 21 countries that participated.

In Australia, AudienceNet surveyed a total of 1,002 people aged 16 and older. The results are fully in line with the global average in some areas, while in others they deviate significantly. Australia ranks comparatively well on average when it comes to the question, whether games are a tool for mental resilience.

Video games as a tool for mental resilience

Video Games…

• Help me feel less stressed: 75% in Australia vs. 77% globally
• Help me feel happier: 72% in Australia vs. 73% globally
• Provide a healthy outlet from everyday challenges: 70% in Australia vs. 72% globally
• Help me feel less anxious: 67% in Australia vs. 70% globally
• Help me feel less isolated: 56% in Australia vs.64% globally
• Help me get through difficult times: 60% in Australia vs. 62% globally

The influence of games also appears to be less pronounced in professional and private life in Australia than in other countries. Only 32% of Australians surveyed agreed with the statement “Influenced my career and/or educational path in a positive way.” Globally, the figure is 43%. The statement “Allows me to continue or pursue a hobby or interest that I wouldn't otherwise be able to do” was agreed with by 48% of Australians surveyed, but by 64% of gamers surveyed worldwide. In both respects, the results are comparable to those from Germany.

Other results are: 57% of gamers surveyed in Australia play online with others at least once a month. 45% play in-person with others at least once during the same period. 42% use in-game communications. Also interesting: 43 percent of parents say that playing video games has positively impacted their relationship with their kids.

Gamer in Australia seem to agree that improving skills through games ist possible, as the support for the following statements shows.

Players agree that video games can improve…

• Problem-solving: 80% of Australian Gamers vs. 77% globally
• Critical thinking: 78% of Australian Gamers vs. 71% globally
• Cognitive: 72% of Australian Gamers vs. 74% globally