Overview: A Big Budget for Big-Name Game Gifts
As families tighten their holiday budgets in 2025, one category remains conspicuously strong: video game gifts. A recent survey of over 1,900 respondents conducted by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) finds that many parents expect to allocate a substantial portion of their holiday spending toward video games, consoles, subscriptions, and related accessories. The results shed light on consumer priorities, the impact of new game releases, and how families are balancing affordability with excitement for popular titles.
What Parents Plan to Spend
The core finding from the ESA survey is clear: parents anticipate spending more on video game gifts than in many prior years. While totals vary by family size and income, a sizeable share report dedicating a significant portion of their budget to hardware purchases for their children—consoles, handheld devices, and newer gaming systems. In addition, many households expect to allocate funds for game code purchases, physical copies, and gift cards that let kids choose their own adventures.
Budget ranges across respondents reveal a few patterns. First-time console buyers and families upgrading to the latest generation tend to plan larger expenditures, while households with established setups focus on expanding libraries with new releases and popular sequels. Subscriptions and online services—critical for online multiplayer and ongoing content—also factor into total gift spending, sometimes more predictably than one-time hardware purchases.
What’s Driving the Spending Increase
Several forces are pushing up the anticipated spend on video game gifts. The release slate for 2024–2025 includes highly anticipated titles and console bundles that attract gift-givers looking for high perceived value. In addition, many families view video games as meaningful entertainment that can be shared, whether through couch co-op experiences, cooperative campaigns, or age-appropriate multiplayer modes.
Educators and industry observers note that gaming continues to evolve as a social activity, not merely a solitary hobby. This social dimension often translates into a willingness to invest in hardware capable of meeting multiplayer expectations and in accessories such as controllers, headsets, and subscription services that unlock additional features and communities.
Considerations for Parents
With budgets in mind, several practical considerations emerge for parents planning to purchase video game gifts in 2025:
- Age-appropriate content: Parents are prioritizing titles that align with their children’s ages and maturity levels, balancing entertainment with safety.
- Value and longevity: Durable consoles, expandable libraries, and memberships that offer ongoing value are appealing to families seeking long-term enjoyment.
- Bundles and discounts: Holiday promotions, bundles that include games plus accessories, and gift cards can maximize value and reduce price friction.
- Resale and trade-in options: Some households weigh the potential to resell games or trade in used hardware when upgrading to newer systems.
Tips for Making Smart Purchases
To make the most of a video game gift budget, consider these guidance points:
- Set a clear budget for hardware versus software to prevent overspending.
- Look for bundles that include popular titles and the latest accessories.
- Prioritize age-appropriate and user-friendly games to minimize parental concerns about content.
- Leverage deals and seasonal promotions to stretch money further without sacrificing quality.
What This Means for Retailers and the Industry
Retailers can respond by featuring accessible bundles, clearly labeled age ratings, and flexible gift options. For game publishers and console manufacturers, the data highlights a continued opportunity to market family-friendly experiences and to promote subscriptions that sustain engagement beyond the holiday season. As families navigate inflationary pressures, the promise of value—through bundles, discounts, and enduring content—remains central to holiday planning.
Bottom Line
The ESA survey underscores a resilient demand for video game gifts in 2025. While households weigh budgets against other holiday needs, the appeal of new consoles, compelling titles, and ongoing services keeps video games at the top of many wish lists. For parents, informed choices—focusing on value, safety, and shared fun—can help ensure a festive season that’s both exciting and financially sensible.
