Generation Z has grown up in a world where gaming has become an integral part of life. The advancement of technology has given a push to the gaming industry. While millennials got introduced to OTT platforms as their primary source of content consumption/entertainment, 62% of Gen Z gamers engage with gaming content on YouTube for entertainment purposes. 73% of Gen Z individuals play games on their mobile phones, and they on average, play for approximately 6 hours and 10 minutes.
More and more GenZ’s are opening up to becoming esports athletes, gaming content creators, tournament organizers, etc. Lastly, 70% of Gen Z teen gamers say that playing video games helps them stay connected to others, emphasizing the social aspect of gaming among this generation.
Raj Varma, aka Snax tells us, “The perception of gaming has shifted dramatically, with Saudi Arabia announcing the annual Esports World Cup starting summer of 2024, and serious discussions about Esports joining the Olympics, diminishing all the outdated misconceptions and stereotypes associated with it.”
Parents and society, in general, are beginning to accept gaming as a legitimate career option, encouraging Gen Z to pursue their dreams. Gaming has swept the nation, becoming a phenomenon with boundless career opportunities, and Gen Z is realizing its potential. “The rise of content creation in gaming has added another dimension to the industry. Gamers are not only competing but also creating content that is entertaining and influencing millions. On the other side, many are joining these creators by being part of their teams which eventually is opening many career options for Gen Z. Hence, I would say it is an exciting time to be a part of this flourishing sector,” he adds.
A rapidly growing segment of the overall online gaming market is skill-based gaming, for it allows players to capitalize on their intelligence and skills to win games and earn from it. While there is already an omnipresent growth for the same, especially among Gen Z, skill-based gaming is poised for further phenomenal growth over the next few years.
“Several factors propel the segment’s growth trajectory, including its increased adaption over games of chance. Another factor is that RMG leaders such as GetMega are taking measures to ensure that the players do not bear the brunt of increased taxation. For instance, we offer skilled players up to 100% GST cashback, which allows them not to hold back and go all out with their skills. The other element of encouragement is leaderboard, which essentially is a manifestation of the players’ intelligence and acumen, rather than luck,” said GetMega in a statement.
Parv Singh aka Regaltos explains, “With the gaming industry’s explosive growth in recent years, it is clear why Gen Z is increasingly considering Esports as a viable profession. The industry is booming, and the opportunities go beyond being just a gamer as you can pursue a career in game development, streaming, casting, content creation, event management, or marketing. Major brands, be it endemic or non-endemic are showing their keen interest and increasingly investing in Esports, gamers, and tournaments. Having recently competed in BGMI tournaments with prize pools reaching crores of rupees and that were broadcasted on Star Sports and Jio Cinema, I can safely say that Esports has now become a mainstream sport.”
