In the digital age, the allure of mobile gaming is undeniable, yet traditional in-person games like poker and board games continue to captivate a significant portion of the population. Recent survey data from CivicScience reveals intriguing insights into the gaming preferences of Americans, highlighting the ongoing competition between these two forms of entertainment.
Board games, a staple of in-person gaming, saw 24% of respondents engaging competitively in the past month. This activity is particularly popular among individuals aged 35-44, with 21% of this age group participating. Interestingly, those with a household income of $0-$29,999 are also more inclined to play board games, accounting for 20% of the players. Suburban residents show a strong preference for board games, with 43% participating, indicating a potential cultural or lifestyle influence in these areas.
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In contrast, mobile gaming has captured the attention of 45% of respondents over the past 30 days. The age group most engaged in mobile gaming is 35-44, with 20% participation. Similar to board games, individuals with a household income of $0-$29,999 are prominent players, making up 21% of the mobile gaming demographic. Suburban areas again lead in participation, with 40% of residents playing mobile games, suggesting a broader trend of digital engagement in these communities.
Video games, another digital entertainment form, were played by 31% of respondents in the past month. The 18-24 age group shows the highest engagement, with 20% participating. This demographic trend aligns with the broader appeal of digital gaming among younger audiences. Suburban residents are also more likely to play video games, with 41% participation, reinforcing the suburban affinity for digital entertainment.
Income levels play a significant role in gaming preferences. Those with a household income of $0-$29,999 are more likely to engage in both board games and mobile games, highlighting a potential economic factor influencing entertainment choices. This income group also shows a higher likelihood of not engaging in any listed activities, with 34% abstaining, suggesting limited access or interest in entertainment options.
Geographic location further influences gaming habits. Suburban residents consistently show higher participation rates across all gaming categories, from board games to mobile and video games. This trend may reflect the availability of resources or cultural preferences within suburban communities.
The survey, conducted among U.S. users visiting CivicScience’s digital properties, provides a snapshot of gaming preferences from April 2024 to February 2025. While mobile gaming continues to grow, traditional in-person games maintain a strong presence, particularly among specific age and income groups. The data underscores the diverse landscape of entertainment choices, shaped by demographic and geographic factors.
Ultimately, the survey highlights the coexistence of digital and traditional gaming, each appealing to different segments of the population. As technology evolves, the interplay between these forms of entertainment will likely continue to shape consumer behavior and preferences.
