The number of Germans engaging in video gaming has reached an all-time high, with a notable increase among individuals aged 60 and older

Germany has reached a new milestone in its gaming community, with over 37.5 million individuals now engaging in video games, marking a national high.

This rise is partly attributed to an increase in players over 60 years old, whose numbers have jumped from 6.4 million to 7.7 million within the past year. As a result, the average age of gamers has exceeded 39 for the first time, climbing from 38.2 in 2023. Of the German gaming population, 52% are male, and 48% are female. The uptick in senior gamers likely reflects an aging demographic of long-time enthusiasts rather than new hobbyists.

Recent insights derived from YouGov Shopper, Nielsen IQ, and data.ai indicate that approximately 59% of Germans aged six to 69 play video games, up by about 9% since 2020. Notably, 79% of this group are adults aged 18 or older.

Felix Falk, Managing Director of game - The German Games Industry Association, which organized the study, stated, "Games captivate millions across Germany, spanning all ages and genders."

"For a long time, many Germans have been gaming, and that number is rising. The average age of gamers is nearing 40, which proves a surprising reality for some: from teenagers to seniors, gaming is a pastime enjoyed by all, with a particularly notable rise among older players."

In October, Germany's Minister of State for Culture and the Media extended an invitation for German game developers to propose innovative concepts and seek funding through the Press Start: Games Startup Grant fund.