The age-old debate between singleplayer and live service games continues to rage on, a battle as fierce as the one between frame rate and fidelity. While the market has shown ample space for both genres to coexist, microtransactions remain the dominant force, driven by their constant availability and relatively low costs.
However, a recent study by the analyst firm Midia offers a fascinating perspective on gamer preferences. The study surveyed 9,000 gamers across various countries and regions, revealing that a resounding 53% (4,770 users) prefer singleplayer experiences over other gaming formats, including PVE, couch co-op, and online PVP.
While younger players aged 16-24 generally lean towards online PVP games, the preference gap between PVP and singleplayer is not significant. As gamers age, though, their affinity for singleplayer experiences strengthens. This trend is particularly evident in the 25-34 age bracket and intensifies further with age. For instance, an impressive 74% of gamers aged 55 and above declare their preference for singleplayer games, likely due to the flexibility and pace these experiences offer.
Singleplayer offline games allow players to set their own pace, enjoying the freedom of pausing and saving progress at will. Live games, on the other hand, demand constant engagement.
This generational shift in gaming preferences presents a dilemma for game publishers. While they are eager to capture newer generations of players for their longer lifespan, billion-dollar companies are ultimately focused on re-engaging and captivating all audiences, especially those with the greatest longevity. The quest to cater to diverse player preferences is a constant challenge, as publishers strive to navigate the evolving landscape of the gaming industry.
