The younger generations have wholeheartedly embraced video games. According to a North American survey, the favorite game for Gen Z, no matter what platform they play on, is Call Of Duty.
So, what makes this first-person shooter (FPS) title such a hit among this demographic?
The video game industry is constantly evolving with new gear, new content and new formats. While consoles remain popular, mobile video games are taking the younger generation by storm.
A recent report by YPulse* identifies the video and mobile games most appreciated by 13-24 year-olds, revealing not only their choices but also the reasons behind these preferences.
Call Of Duty for the win
For the fourth year running, Call Of Duty dominates the rankings, a fan favorite due to its engaging gameplay, realistic graphics and ability to be adapted to different platforms. The game came first among 13-17 and 18-24 year-olds, while second and third place went to Fortnite and Roblox respectively among younger gamers, and Grand Theft Auto V and Grand Theft Auto (GTA franchise) among older gamers.
The popularity of games like Fortnite, Roblox and Minecraft suggest that the metaverse concept has gained a foothold, offering both community spaces and a variety of types of game objectives.
The fact that titles like FIFA, Madden NFL and NBA 2K are in the top 15 reflect young people’s passion for the world of sports, with such titles combining competition with players’ fan loyalty regarding real teams and athletes. More than a quarter of teenagers and young adults say they play sports video games.
Cross-platform titles rule
The ability of a game to be played on multiple devices, including mobile, is a key factor in its success, enabling greater inclusivity and accessibility. Nearly two-thirds of Millennial parents tell YPulse that their children play games on mobile devices every week.
Virtual spaces have become places for meeting up and interacting, with many young gamers attending unique, collaborative events. Young people remain attached to franchises they grew up with, while exploring new genres.
YPulse data highlights that four out of ten teenagers who play video games do so to spend time with their friends. In this demographic gaming goes beyond simple screen time, encompassing a variety of genres and missions in virtual worlds.
A 15-year-old boy told YPulse that COD is his favorite video/mobile game because it “involves strategizing and great skill to win assigned missions”.
The 15 favorite video / mobile games among 13-24-year-olds (13-17 / 18-24):
1) Call Of Duty
2) Fortnite / Grand Theft Auto V
3) Roblox / Grand Theft Auto (franchise)
4) Minecraft / Roblox
5) Grand Theft Auto / PUBG
6) Candy Crush / Fortnite
7) FIFA / Minecraft
8) Madden NFL / Candy Crush
9) The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim / Apex Legends
10) Apex Legends / FIFA
11) Pokémon / Call Of Duty: Black Ops Cold War
12) God of War / NBA 2K
13) Stardew Valley / Call Of Duty: Mobile
14) Genshin Impact / Subway Surfers
15) The Sims / Mario Kart – AFP Relaxnews
* YPulse Gaming survey conducted in the US and Canada from Oct 10 to 19, 2023 among 1,500 people aged 13 to 39.
