0
0
Transition Towards Gaming in Entertainment Consumption
Fandom’s report highlights a shift in consumer behavior towards gaming as a preferred form of entertainment over traditional mediums like movies and TV shows. The study reveals that 67% of fans are dedicating the same or more time to consuming content or playing video games, with 33% spending less time on cable or in theaters. Gaming emerges as the top choice for this transitioning audience, with 59% favoring it as their primary activity.
Understanding the “Switchers”
One key finding in the study is the rise of a new audience segment known as “Switchers.” These individuals are moving away from conventional entertainment consumption to activities such as gaming, social media engagement, reading, and hobbies. This trend presents an opportunity for entertainment companies to engage with audiences through innovative content strategies like book-to-game or book-to-film adaptations.
Contrary to popular belief, the report emphasizes a mutually beneficial relationship between the gaming and entertainment industries. While gaming attracts entertainment fans, those who enjoy gaming often turn to TV and movies for a change of pace. This dynamic interaction underscores the interconnected nature of these mediums and the potential for collaborative endeavors.
Opportunities for Advertisers and Marketers
The study suggests that advertisers and marketers view gaming as an ally rather than a competitor. By targeting Switchers and developing specialized gaming strategies, companies can enhance viewer engagement and retention. The report also encourages leveraging Fandom’s first-party data, drawn from a vast platform of 350 million monthly unique visitors, to tailor marketing efforts towards this evolving audience.
Furthermore, the study identifies social media, reading, and hobbies as other areas where Switchers are investing time. This presents an additional opportunity for content creators to engage with this audience through cross-over adaptations and new strategies.
Appeal of Gaming to Entertainment Fans
The data reveals that drama enthusiasts who also game are drawn to specific genres like Role-Playing (RPG), Adventure, Simulation, Sandbox/Open World, and Puzzle games. Gaming excels in meeting the emotional needs of fans, providing interactive and engaging experiences that offer a sense of accomplishment and control over narratives.
About 82% of gamers perceive video games as more interactive and engaging than movies and TV shows. Additionally, 59% feel a sense of achievement while playing video games, 53% appreciate the control they have over storylines, and 45% are more emotionally invested in video game narratives.
Image/Photo credit: source url
