Report: Almost half of gamers in Japan are in their late teens
A new report by Niko Partners has revealed that 46% of gamers in Japan fall within the age range of 16 to 18.
The market research firm's annual Japan Youth Gamers report surveyed more than 300 parents of gamers aged six to 18 and over 90 gamers between the ages of 16 to 18.
Console gaming is the most popular format among Japanese youth, used by 72.3% of the 16 to 18 demographic, followed by mobile gaming at 63.5%. Only 14.7% of respondents said they played on PC.
Additionally, this demographic played an average of 7.9 hours per week on mobile, compared to 6.5 hours on console and PC.
According to Niko Partner's survey, young Japanese gamers are "more receptive" to foreign game titles, esports, livestreaming games, and content creators than adult gamers, with 46% of teens surveyed showing interest compared to 12% of overall Japanese gamers.
"There is an opportunity for non-Japanese gaming companies to expand and increase their presence in Japan, as the country's youth gamers is a potential market on its own," said Lisa Hanson, CEO and founder of Niko Partners.
The survey also found that Japanese parents "have a more favorable view towards gaming" and are more than likely to be gamers themselves.
67% of parents of children aged six to 18 would instead supervise gaming time rather than let the government do so. Niko Partner's report showed that 45.8% of young Japanese gamers agree.
In July, another report from Niko Partners found that women make up 37% of game players in Asia, accounting for nearly 25% of total revenue for the region's market.
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