As millennials, we do things a little (or a lot) differently. Yes, we do like avocado toast, ethical shopping, and living in the moment more than the average Baby Boomer. It makes sense to us.
Well, when it comes to gaming, several studies have shown that Millennials account for the biggest demo of people who play online games and video games. A Fandom study featured by Variety Magazine found that millennials are spending more time (22 hours per week, to be precise, on average) on these games than teens, Gen Z, and of course, baby boomers.
But which games do millennials actually play, and why?
A look at the numbers
The numbers tell quite a story. Again, the Fandom study says millennials are dedicating an average of 22 hours per week to gaming, outdoing both Gen Z and teenagers. That’s the two gens we always thought were hardcore gamers.
For millennials, online gaming isn’t just a casual hobby. Given the number of hours they put into gaming, it is part and parcel of the millennial lifestyle. Probably as much as avocado toast.
The ComScore’s latest State of Gaming report paints an even more interesting picture. That millennials are not just the dominant online gamer demo, but by far. As noted by eMarketer, the group makes up a little shy of half of online gamers creating a clear generational divide. Only Gen X follows at a distant 28%, with Baby Boomers round out the demographics at 11%.
It’s easy to see why Millennials game online more than other generations
The tech generation
Millennials grew up side by side with gaming tech. This helped them transition without batting an eye from classic gaming to online platforms. They have served as witnesses and embraced the migration from simple arcade games to 3D and most recently, 4K online multiplayer rigs.
Disposable income
Millennials care a lot about life-work balance. They know the ills and actively push for ways to protect their mental health. It so happens that gaming is one of the things that could help them unwind at the end (or even in the middle) of the day. And with established careers, they have plenty of money to invest in premium online games and in-game purchases.
Escaping the harsh realities
Millennials don’t have it good. We’re sorry to say so. Technology may have helped create tech jobs, social media, and all that, but the generation lag when it comes to the American Dream. They have to work more hours than ever with little to no house ownership to show for it. That’s where online gaming comes into play to help them escape this sobering truth.
Social connection
For millennials, gaming isn’t just about playing. It’s about connecting. Online games provide a platform to maintain friendships, meet new people, and build communities around shared interests. They simply tick most of the checkboxes that millennials care about.
Millennial taste in online games
As they continue to age, millennials have switched a few gears on what they like in online games. The front and center is still the social bit. That’s why 41% prefer multiplayer online (MMO) games. We’re talking popular titles like World of Warcraft and Final Fantasy XIV pulling millennials by the numbers. They love MMOs for their social immersive worlds and long-term progression.
Next up, 27% of millennials go for strategy games. As with other older generations, they favor these games for their potential for intellectual growth. Those that have stolen millennial hearts include StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty, Civilization VI, and RuneScape. When it comes to web-based games, they often go for card strategy games like blackjack, chess, and sudoku.
RPG is another game category that appeals to the generation. Think of titles like Elden Ring and World of Warcraft. They put in the numbers because of their colorful storytelling, complex yet relatable characters, and plenty of customizations. We can’t forget the community interaction.
Top 10 online games loved by Millennials
1. World of Warcraft
This MMO continues to wow players through its vast world, spellbinding storytelling, and vibrant community.
2. Final Fantasy XIV
Square Enix’s MMO gem is a combo of great visuals with amazing storytelling. Players can freely switch between multiple characters.
3. Online Blackjack
Playing blackjack online is right up there among other intellectual-stimulating games like Sudoku, Chess, or Scrabble. Its appeal among millennials says a lot about their preference for online games that marry strategy with skill and a touch of social interaction. It helps that blackjack comes in many flavors, including single-deck, multi-deck, and multiplayer variants.
No matter the type, the goal of blackjack is simple yet brain-engaging. Your hand has to beat the dealer’s without going over 21 points. If it does, they say your hand has burst and you lose, and if the other way around happens, you win automatically. You can learn more about how online blackjack works and challenges your strategic thinking from this source.
4. StarCraft II
This beloved real-time strategy game maintains its relevance through intense competitive multiplayer matches and deep strategic gameplay. It’s so interesting AI couldn’t beat it.
5. Chess.com
This is the definitive online platform for chess fans that offers terrific skill-based matchmaking and helpful training resources.
6. Civilization VI
An elegant turn-based strategy game that marries historical elements with an ageless tactical gameplay.
7. Among Us
An addictive social game that creates memorable moments through simple but engaging gameplay.
8. Sudoku.com
The definitive online home for Sudoku fans, the platform offers daily challenges and progressive difficulty levels.
9. Scrabble GO
A modern remake of the classic word game that maintains its intellectual challenge while adding contemporary social features.
10. League of Legends
A true icon of the MOBA genre, this game maintains its pull through constant remakes and updates.
There you have it – top 10 games loved by millennials. Did your favorite make a cut?
Published by HOLR Magazine.