Recent reports have shed light on the viewing habits of gamers and the potential for publishers to unlock new revenue streams. Rhys Elliott's research reveals interesting insights about in-game buyers and console/PC players.

Unlock New Revenue in Gaming with Video Engagement

Gameplay vs. Watching: A Gaming Paradox

According to a recent report by Midia Research, gamers spend around 7.4 hours a week gaming and 8.5 hours a week watching game-related videos. This shows a significant preference for watching over playing. Rhys Elliott, the report's author, emphasizes the importance of publishers capturing this video-related consumer engagement.It's fascinating to see that 48% of "in-game buyers" and 24% of console/PC players view gaming content at least monthly. This highlights the potential market for video engagement within the gaming community.

The Rise of Video Content in Gaming

Videos by VICE have played a crucial role in this trend. They provide a platform for gamers to connect and share their experiences. Watching streamers and YouTubers play games has become a popular pastime, offering a sense of community and entertainment that reading an article can't match.For example, podcasts have been growing in popularity as a way for gamers to engage with content on the go. It allows them to listen to discussions and analyses while doing other things. This shows the power of video and audio content in the gaming world.

The Corporate Impact on Gaming

The idea of publishers "reclaiming video engagement" raises concerns. There is a fear that it could lead to a corporate-mandated approach that takes away the authenticity and creativity of gaming.For instance, forcing developers to stream games or buying streamers to promote specific games could distort the gaming ecosystem. Games are already treated as products, and this could further erode the sense of love and creativity that goes into making them.We need to be cautious about how we approach video engagement in gaming to ensure that it doesn't become a tool for corporate greed at the expense of the gaming community.