Exploring the next generation of older gamers: Middle-aged gamers

Abstract

In recent years, much attention has been drawn to the burgeoning market of older gamers. As such, a greater base of knowledge has been amassed from studies that assess the characteristics of this active gamer population. Yet, not much is known about today’s Middle-Aged Gamers, the next generation of older gamers. Using grounded theory methodology and a life course perspective, the interview responses of 56 gamers – 30 Older Gamers (age 60 to 77) and 26 Middle-Aged Gamers (age 43 to 59) – were coded and examined with an eye for recognizing generational characteristics. This resulted in the identification of three distinct themes: game preferences, platform used, and anticipated future gameplay. The findings demonstrate that it cannot be assuming that the Middle- Aged Gamers will, in time, be like today’s Older Gamers. Rather, they exhibit qualities that will reshape scholars’ and game developers’ notions of gameplay in old age.