Global Video Games Market on the Rise
Statista, a prominent global data and business intelligence platform, recently projected that the global video games market is set to reach a remarkable $2.3 billion in 2024. This figure comes on the heels of a slight decline in the U.S. gaming market, which was valued at approximately $6.82 billion last year, down from $4.7 billion in 2021. However, this dip in revenue does not correlate with a decrease in player engagement. In fact, Exploding Topics estimates that the number of gamers worldwide will rise to 3.32 billion in 2024, marking an increase of 100 million from the previous year.
In the United States, around 65% of the population engages in video gaming, as reported by the Entertainment Software Association’s annual 2023 Essential Facts About the U.S. Video Game Industry. This translates to roughly 212.6 million players participating weekly. Notably, about 96% of survey respondents view video games as beneficial to their lives. Stanley Pierre-Louis, President and CEO of the Entertainment Software Association, emphasized the enduring presence of video games in American households, stating that they have become a norm across generations. He remarked, “The report demonstrates that video games not only connect us but also enhance our sense of wellbeing.”
Tennessee's Favorite Video Games
So, what are Tennessee’s favorite video games? In a recent survey conducted by Holiday Calendar, which polled 3,200 Americans, researchers identified the top 25 favorite video games across the country. While the exact methodology of the survey was not disclosed, the findings revealed intriguing insights into gaming preferences. The top five games favored by Tennesseans in 2024 are:
- Fortnite
- Minecraft
- Grand Theft Auto V
- The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
- League of Legends
Fortnite, the battle royale phenomenon that has captivated millions since its launch in July 2017, stands out as the most popular game in Tennessee and 24 other states. This game has evolved into a multifaceted ecosystem, offering players a variety of experiences developed by Epic Games and countless creators.
Minecraft, the second favorite among Tennessee gamers, invites players into a world of creativity and exploration. Released in November 2011, it allows users to engage in gameplay modes that emphasize creativity and survival, fostering a vibrant community built around blocks and imaginative constructs.
Grand Theft Auto V, released in September 2013, ranks third in Tennessee. The game intricately weaves the stories of diverse characters involved in high-stakes heists, providing players with an immersive narrative experience.
Adventure enthusiasts in Tennessee also favor The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which debuted in May 2023. This game empowers players to chart their own course through the enchanting landscapes of Hyrule and its floating islands.
Finally, League of Legends, a strategic team-based game launched in October 2009, rounds out the top five. It pits two teams of champions against each other in a battle to destroy the opposing base, showcasing the competitive spirit of the gaming community.
Katie Nixon can be reached at knixon@gannett.com.