Gaming is, without hyperbole, the biggest industry we have right now; more so than film and music. Billions of dollars in revenue are generated every year, and video games are set to become more lucrative, it seems.
But, if you’re from the US, it might interest to know that gaming has different trends, depending on which state you look at. That’s according to a recent study conducted byProdigy Game, which has analyzed data from across America to see who’s more obsessed than others.
Combining Google search trends with additional research, the study has ascertained which states cared about which video game trends during 2024. The results take into account such things as the number of esports events, as well as arcades and gaming stores, and overall search volumes.
And number one is…
With a score of 76.16 out of a possible 100,Delaware was considered the most gaming-obsessed statein the US, with the study counting 101 arcades and 55 video game stores per 100,000 residents. However, it has zero esports events, compared to fifth place Nevada, which had four. Interestingly, the number two spot (Rhode Island) seems leagues behind Delaware, with a score of 51.53 and boasting just 33 arcades.
Some additional data also shows which video games different states searched for the most during 2024. The likes ofHelldivers 2,Valorant, andBlack Myth: Wulongtook the top spots, with some others likeBelatro,Silent Hill 2(presumably the remake), andCall of Duty: Black Ops 6rounding out the top ten.
As for consoles: the data shows the PS5 was the most searched for across the US last year, with the Nintendo Switch following closely behind. What about the Switch 2? It seems as though anticipation is definitely building for the upcoming console, which was said to be the fifth most searched console.
In general, it makes for a pretty interesting read, delivering an overview of what North American gamers are interested in. As the study itself says: “these 2024 gaming trends reveal a snapshot of regional preferences, from Delaware’s arcade density to the console wars between the West and East Coasts.” I wonder what the data will reveal in 2025.
