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US: Which factors make gamers prefer certain consoles over others?
YouGov Profiles data shows that over half of all American gamers own video gaming consoles (53%). In this piece we look at the factors that drive gamers’ preferences when it comes to the type or brand of the console.
The selection of games available on a console is the single most important reason gamers buy consoles. Three in ten US gamers indicate that the availability of their favorite titles on a particular system can influence their preference (30%).
In a similar vein, a quarter say that the types of games and in-game content can influence their choice (24%).
A fifth choose a type or brand of console that comes across as being ‘more fun’. The console design, customisations, controllers, and special edition packs could all help manufacturers gain a foothold among gamers that choose consoles based on fun factor. A similar portion of US gamers look at systems with the best graphics (18%) or ones that allow them to play with friends (17%).
Brand loyalty can also be a decisive factor, with about a fifth of American gamers saying one reason for choosing a certain console is that they’ve “always played on that system” (18%).
The ability to “play on the go” is considered by one in seven gamers (15%). A similar portion might opt for a brand simply because their friends play it (14%). Best gaming storylines (14%) and the console’s online capabilities (13%) can also sway decisions.
One in nine gamers might choose one type or brand of console over another because “it is more relaxing” (11%). This might have to do with the types of games available on a system and the design of gaming controllers.
YouGov Profiles shows that a third of US gamers say they are likely to purchase a console in the next six months (33%), including the 14% who say they are very likely. Manufacturers and marketers can use Profiles data to optimise their offerings for potential buyers.
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Methodology: YouGov Profiles is based on continuously collected data and rolling surveys, rather than from a single limited questionnaire. Profiles data is nationally representative and weighted by age, gender, education, region, and race. Learn more about Profiles.