An ESA study indicated that video games are helpful for stress reduction and maintaining social ties during and after military service.
WASHINGTON, May 1, 2025 — The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) revealed findings today from a survey focusing on the benefits of gaming for U.S. veterans. According to the survey, 77% of veterans feel video games positively influence their lives. The majority of those surveyed stated that gaming is a good way to relieve stress and worry (86%), assists them in dealing with difficult situations (81%), allows them to connect with others (77%), and that gaming communities are beneficial for their mental and emotional well-being (74%).
Similarly, when reflecting on their time in the military, veterans reported that playing video games helped them relax and escape the pressures of military life (85%), boosted morale and strengthened bonds (78%), and was an effective tool for promoting teamwork and cooperation (73%).
ESA President and CEO Stanley Pierre-Louis stated, “We have long recognized the advantages of video games beyond mere entertainment, and this new data provides a particularly strong illustration of the power of play. We are very proud of the positive effects of video games in supporting mental health, building social connections, and improving overall well-being. It is especially gratifying to know that these benefits are felt by those who have served our nation.”
Stephen Machuga, a veteran and the founder & executive director of Stack Up, a nonprofit that supports veterans’ mental health through video gaming, added, “I witness the positive effects of video games on veterans and service members every day. Video games have proven to be a valuable means of stress reduction, a way to connect with friends and fellow service members, and a positive source of relaxation and mental well-being.”
Who are they and how/what are they playing?
The survey also investigated who U.S. veterans are, how they engage with video games, and what they play, in addition to the impact and function of video games in their lives. Veteran gamers are typically male, 37 years old, college-educated, employed full-time, and married with children. They enlisted and served for an average of six years.
The vast majority (79%) play with others on a weekly basis. They prefer using consoles (74%) over personal computers (63%) and smartphones (62%) and enjoy playing a diverse range of games across various genres. When asked about their most frequently played games, action shooter games were the top choice (55%), followed by role-playing (RPG/MMORPG) and multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) games (39%), sports games (31%), and action-adventure games (28%).
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Survey Methodology
YouGov conducted an online survey between January 14-27, 2025, among U.S. gamers aged 22 to 50 who play on PCs or consoles. The survey aimed to understand the influence and role of video games in the lives of U.S. veterans. The sample included 1,096 veteran gamers and 508 non-veteran gamers.
About the ESA
The Entertainment Software Association (ESA), established in 1994, has represented the U.S. video game industry for over 30 years. Its members include innovators, creators, publishers, and business leaders who are transforming entertainment and how we interact, learn, connect, and play. The ESA promotes and protects the video game market through initiatives that highlight the positive impact of video games on individuals, culture, and the economy, ensuring a thriving future for the industry. For more details, visit the or follow the ESA on X or Instagram .
About Stack Up
Stack Up, founded in 2015, unites veterans and civilians through their shared passion for gaming and geek culture. Through programs like Supply Crates, which provide games and equipment to veterans in need, suicide prevention initiatives like the Stack Up Overwatch Program (StOP), and their community center in Los Angeles, Phalanx House, Stack Up has supported over 60,000 U.S. and Allied military service members by helping them cope with deployments to combat zones and recover from physical and emotional trauma through video gaming.
SOURCE Entertainment Software Association
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