Around the world, video games are seen as fun and entertaining. After all, “game” is right there in the name.

Those of us who work in the video game industry, however, see video games in a brighter light. We regularly talk to players who have found social communities – and even life partners – through a shared interest in playing video games. We hear from doctors and patients who use video games as a life-changing form of treatment and therapy. We see how playing together brings families closer, creating opportunities for connection that cuts across generations. We watch professional esport athletes and streamers who discovered they can convert a hobby into a successful career. And we’ve heard from players around the world who believe that video games are more than just fun – they are powerful.

The video game industry has long been at the forefront of innovation, redefining not just the boundaries of play but also revolutionizing how entire industries reach consumers, train workforce, and drive business transformation and growth. Video games also sit at the epicenter of culture, introducing billions of players to music, shows, and movies, and giving them a chance to engage with their favorite brands and celebrities. In many cases, playing video games allows players to continue sports and hobbies after the glory days are physically behind them.

Yet, despite the reality that video games are a cultural, business, and societal force that have long transcended entertainment, stubborn stereotypes about games – and the people who love to play them – persist. It’s time that the world embraces the power of play.

In our second iteration of the global Power of Play report, trade associations representing the video game industry around the world came together to create one of the largest surveys ever conducted of video game players. Speaking with 24,216 players (ages 16 and older), we asked people across 21 countries – Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Egypt, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Nigeria, Poland, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States – why they play, how they play, and the perceived benefits of play.

We confirmed that having fun is the top reason the world plays video games and learned that video games help players feel less stressed and help them get through difficult times. Players also recognize that video games develop skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, adaptability, and critical thinking.

Across the world, video games are appreciated as a vehicle to build positive and lasting connections with children, family, and friends, but also viewed as a space to find new relationships in an increasingly isolated world.

The benefits of playing video games are not just felt and shared by those who love to play them; there is a growing body of academic research challenging the prevailing stereotypes about video games, consistently supporting the conclusion that video games enhance cognitive development, build emotional resilience, support social and mental health, and foster learning and development.

The report that follows includes findings from the 24,000+ player survey, as well as the conclusions from peer-reviewed, rigorous studies that validate the positive sentiments and benefits of play shared by billions around the world.

Taken together, the research affirms the true power of play.