US teens are now gaming more than they’re watching TV

Young Americans are increasingly drawn to video games — so much so that this activity now occupies a bigger place in their lives than television, according to a recent survey by YPulse. The trend reflects a shift in media consumption habits among teens, who now favor the interactive, immersive experiences offered by video games.

More than nine in ten teenagers aged 13-17 play video games on a console, computer or cell phone at least once a week, compared to 86% of adults aged 18-39. On average, 13-17 year-olds play for more than 14 hours a week on their computers and consoles, according to research by YPulse.

They also spend 6.5 hours a week playing games on smartphones, the same amount of time they spend watching TV shows. Movies account for 4.5 hours of their weekly time. Esports also appeal to young people, who watch them for an average of 2.6 hours a week.

This trend can be explained by the fact that 68% of young people find video games more entertaining than TV shows or movies. “The physical and mental demand of games are more entertaining for their minds than sitting down and staying put to watch a show. And sometimes, a game’s storyline inspires what kind of shows they watch,” the report explains.

However, this trend does not mean that young people have completely abandoned television. They still enjoy watching TV shows and movies, especially when they’re based on popular video games. According to the study, 48% of teenagers aged 13-17 are more likely to watch a movie or TV show if it’s adapted from a video game.

Nevertheless, for the young people surveyed, the small screen is not always a singular activity. Some 76% admit to doing other things while watching TV, such as scrolling on social networks, or playing their favorite video game.

So it’s no surprise that Hollywood is now turning its attention to video games. Adaptations of “Uncharted,” starring Tom Holland, and “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” have been recent box-office hits.

*This YPulse study was carried out among 1,308 people aged 13 to 39 in the USA and Canada, from April 9 to 18, 2024.