The recent shift in gaming preferences among U.S. children has been notable this Christmas, with video game-related products ranking as the most desired gifts. According to the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), 72% of children aged 10 to 17 preferred gaming gifts, yet only 22% expressed interest in physical video games. Instead, gaming subscriptions such as PlayStation Plus, Xbox Game Pass, and Nintendo Switch Online took the top spot with 39% wanting them, followed by consoles at 38%. Digital gaming sales continue to dominate the market, with significant trends leaning towards digital downloads over physical editions. The popularity of video games as gifts is backed by the statistic that over 212 million Americans regularly play video games. The ESA highlights that video games are not just a form of entertainment but also a means for families to bond and connect, especially during the holiday season.

These findings reflect a broader international trend towards digital purchases, exemplified by the digital-first releases of games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Alan Wake 2. Major publishers like Capcom have observed that about 80% of their sales are now digital. The move to digital has been growing, with reports noting that in the UK, digital sales made up approximately 90% of all game sales in 2022. This trend is consistent with convenience being a major factor for consumers, as the ease of digital downloads and the ability to pre-load games are outweighing the traditional appeal of physical copies.