Power of Play: South Africa

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 South Africa, AudienceNet surveyed a total of 1,283 people aged 16 and older. The results from South Africa differ from the global average in many respects. For example, the proportion of women among gamers is higher than in any other country. In addition to demographic differences, the results also differ when it comes to the question of whether games are a tool for mental resilience.

Video games as a tool for mental resilience

Video Games…

• Help me feel less stressed: 91% in South Africa vs. 77% globally
• Help me feel happier: 86% in South Africa vs. 73% globally
• Provide a healthy outlet from everyday challenges: 79% in South Africa vs. 72% globally
• Help me feel less anxious: 84% in South Africa vs. 70% globally
• Help me feel less isolated: 78% in South Africa vs.64% globally
• Help me get through difficult times: 75% in South Africa vs. 62% globally

In South Africa, however, the influence of games in professional and private differs only slightly from the global average. 54% of South Africans 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 76% of South Africans surveyed, but by 64% of gamers surveyed worldwide.

Other findings are: 81% of gamers surveyed in South Africa play online with others at least once a month. 75% even play in-person with others at least once during the same period. 68% use in-game communications. Also interesting: 72 percent of parents say that playing video games has positively impacted their relationship with their kids. By comparison, the figure in Germany is 27%.

South African gamers also strongly believe that gaming can improve skills, as the support for the following statements shows.

Players agree that video games can improve…

• Problem-solving: 93% of South African Gamers vs. 76% globally
• Creativity: 91% of South African Gamers vs. 77% globally
• Critical thinking: 91% of South African Gamers vs. 71% globally