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Women are now the (slight) majority of Canadians who play video games, according to the “Power of Play” report released this week by the Entertainment Software Association of Canada (ESAC), which represents the video game industry.

The survey, conducted by national trade associations in 12 countries, polled 24,216 active players aged 16 and older, including 1,521 Canadians.

It found that women now make just over half of gamers in Canada (51% overall, and 53% in Quebec). And gamers are split fairly evenly across age groups: 37% of players aged 35-54; 35% aged 55-plus; and 27% aged 16-34.

Mobile phones are the device of choice for 52% of players, compared to gaming consoles/VR (25%) or computers and laptops (22%). 

Respondents’ primary reason for playing video games is to relieve stress and relax (80%), while 70% say that playing video games makes them feel happier and 68% say video games provide a healthy outlet from everyday challenges. A significant proportion of respondents (57%) say video games have helped them get through difficult times in their lives.

A majority of those surveyed (74%) say video games unite people from different backgrounds, and 62% agreed that the shared experience creates a strong sense of community. More than half (51%) said they use video games to stay in touch with friends and family.