Published on August 27, 2025
By: Tuhin Sarkar
Gaming is no longer just for the young. Grandmas and grandpas now make up nearly 30% of all gamers in the United States in 2025. This is a massive increase from just 9% in 1999, according to the Entertainment Software Association. The average gamer is now 36 years old, and women account for 47% of all players. These shifts prove that gaming has evolved into a mainstream activity that spans across generations. Parents, grandparents, and even great-grandparents are embracing technology, showing that the meaning of “gamer” has permanently changed.
Gaming has matured with its audience
The gaming industry has grown side by side with its players. Many who began gaming on early consoles continue to play as adults, even as grandparents. Nearly one-third of all U.S. gamers are parents or grandparents today. Advances in mobile platforms, easy-to-use hardware, and accessible design make it easier for older players to join in. Features like scalable text, clear tutorials, and flexible difficulty settings attract this growing audience. This evolution shows that gaming has outgrown its youth-focused identity and is now a lifelong source of entertainment.
The rise of seasoned players in the U.S.
Older players are now just as numerous as younger gamers. Developers have adapted by creating games that fit different needs. Tutorials are clearer, controls are easier, and games offer flexible levels of challenge. This helps seasoned players engage fully with new releases. Their spending power also makes them a valuable audience for studios. Unlike the stereotype of gaming as a youth hobby, it is now a family activity enjoyed across generations. Parents and grandparents are now a key part of the community, reshaping the market.
Women now make up almost half of all gamers
The gender divide in gaming is narrowing rapidly. Women now represent 47% of all players in the U.S., according to ESA data. Older women are playing just as much as older men. Among Boomers, women are more active gamers than men, with 52% participation compared to 46%. Even women in the Silent Generation, aged 80 to 90, play games at equal rates as men their age. This growth in female players, especially in older demographics, proves that gaming is no longer a male-dominated or youth-only industry.
Marketing must speak to mature female voices
With women almost matching men in numbers, the gaming industry must rethink its messages. Campaigns that highlight mature female perspectives resonate strongly with this audience. Storytelling that includes diverse experiences draws loyal engagement. Older women are not casual participants—they invest time and money in games that matter to them. Developers who recognise this can unlock a powerful new market. Inclusive design and representation are no longer optional. They are now vital for growth in a market that values diversity and authenticity.
A generational shift driven by design and family play
This shift is not accidental. Games have adapted to fit older lifestyles. As an MPL spokesperson noted, games now feature intuitive design, short sessions, and cross-play options that allow families to play together. Lifelong players continue to game as they age, while late adopters discover mobile titles that are easy to learn. Families use games to connect across generations, from grandchildren to grandparents. This redefines the image of the gamer. It is no longer just a teenager in a bedroom—it is also a grandmother playing with her family.
The growth of older gamers has been steady
The rise of older gamers has been two decades in the making. In 1999, only 9% of players were over 50. By 2004, that number had grown to 17%. By 2024, nearly 29% of all players were aged 50 or older. This steady growth reflects both loyal enthusiasts and new entrants drawn by mobile games. Smartphones have been crucial in this growth, offering simple yet engaging experiences that suit older adults’ daily lives. From puzzles to online community games, older players are discovering gaming as both fun and social.
Global gaming is now a multi-billion-player story
The ageing gamer trend in the U.S. is part of a global story. Today, 3.32 billion people around the world play games, and this number is set to surpass 3.5 billion in 2025. Asia leads with 1.48 billion players, followed by Europe with 715 million and North America with 285 million. These numbers confirm gaming as the most widespread form of entertainment. For developers, success depends on localisation. Older players across regions need content tailored to culture, language, and usability. Meeting these needs ensures a strong global reach.
Designing games for all ages and stories
To keep pace with this transformation, developers must design with all ages in mind. Scalable interfaces, simple tutorials, and flexible difficulty settings make games more inclusive. Stories must also evolve, reflecting the lives of diverse and mature players. Campaigns that highlight inclusivity and representation create stronger loyalty. Premium models like downloadable content and subscription services align with older audiences who prefer structured engagement. These players value quality and are willing to invest in games that offer meaningful, long-lasting experiences.
The industry must act now to embrace change
The growth of older gamers is not a small trend. It is a major shift that redefines the industry. Nearly 30% of U.S. players are now aged 50 or older. Women are on the brink of full parity with men. Globally, billions of people play games, with every generation represented. Studios that adapt will thrive. Those that fail to act risk falling behind. By designing inclusively, marketing wisely, and localising globally, the industry can embrace its most diverse and profitable era yet.
Conclusion: Grandparents redefine what it means to be a gamer
Gaming’s future is no longer defined by age or gender stereotypes. Grandmas and grandpas are redefining what it means to be a gamer. They bring financial strength, loyalty, and intergenerational connections. Women are playing in equal numbers, breaking outdated assumptions. Globally, billions are part of this revolution. The message is clear: the gamer of tomorrow could be anyone. From a teenager in Asia to a grandmother in America, gaming has become a universal language. Developers must embrace this change, because the future belongs to everyone who picks up a controller.
Source: Mobile Premier League
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