23% of those who play these games felt inspired
Video games sometimes face criticism for their potential negative effects on players, sparking heated debates about their influence on mental and social well-being.
Critics argue that excessive gaming can lead to addiction, impacting academic and professional performance, and even straining relationships.
Violent video games, in particular, are frequently blamed for desensitising players to aggression, fostering unhealthy behaviour, and reinforcing negative stereotypes.
Additionally, concerns about sedentary lifestyles and prolonged screen time contributing to physical health issues, like obesity and vision problems, further add to the stigma surrounding gaming.
However, a poll has found that they may not be so bad for you because they help people take up sports in real life.
Let’s explore what the survey revealed in more detail.
What did the Survey Say?
A survey of 2,000 individuals, ranging in age from three to 34, highlighted the influence of sports-based console games.
The findings revealed that 23% of those who play these games felt inspired to take up a sport in real life.
Interestingly, almost 90% of sports gamers said that they already participate in sports outside of their gaming experience, emphasising a deep connection between their digital hobbies and active lifestyles.
Additionally, 87% of respondents shared that playing these games increased their enthusiasm for attending live matches, with many expressing a newfound appreciation for the electric atmosphere of stadiums.
Nearly three-quarters (74%) credited sports video games with helping them gain a clearer understanding of the rules of their favourite sports.
This highlights how these games can serve as an engaging educational tool, breaking down complex gameplay mechanics in a way that enhances both enjoyment and knowledge.
Which are the Most Popular Games?
When it comes to the most popular sports in video games, football, basketball and American football led the way.
The report found that simulation games such as EA FC were almost twice as popular as fantasy games.
These types of games were identified as the biggest catalyst for helping gamers take up active sports for the first time.
Max Proctor, CEO at The Gang, the gaming studio which commissioned the study, said:
“Sports organisations are constantly grappling with the question of how to get younger audiences into their sport.”
“Our research shows that gaming is a brilliant way to reach your next generation of fans and convert them into your players, followers, attendees and consumers of tomorrow.
“It’s encouraging to see that even those who don’t play video games themselves can see how sports games drives a positive momentum towards real-life sport fandom.”
Organisations/Clubs using Gaming to Encourage People
Half of the respondents were British and the other half were American.
The popularity of sports video games has prompted some organisations and sports clubs to harness its power to encourage young people to take up the respective sport.
Alexandra Willis, director of digital and fan engagement at the Premier League, says:
“Evidence suggests that gaming is increasingly prominent among younger audiences but it’s sometimes been difficult to prove whether that behaviour converts audiences into other areas of fandom.
“This report from The Gang supports our instinct that audiences we reach via gaming are significantly more likely to understand, be interested in and consume Premier League content more broadly, with the potential to be nurtured into lifelong fans for our clubs and broadcasters over time.”
Meanwhile, the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews in Scotland is trying to utilise gaming’s popularity to encourage young people to take up the sport.
Gavin Forrester, the manager of the golf club, said:
“We know that there are many different pathways into golf and we are focused on making the sport more inclusive, accessible and appealing.
“Just Swing is producing encouraging feedback from players who say they want to get out and play golf for real.”
“We hope that it will attract many more young people to experience for themselves the benefits that golf can offer.”
In the ongoing debate about whether video games are a force for good or harm, sports games stand out as a surprising champion for positive impact.
Far from being a mere digital pastime, these games are inspiring some players to lace up their boots, hit the courts, and embrace active lifestyles.
Based on the survey, what begins as a virtual match transforms into a real-life passion.
Not only are sports games sparking interest in physical activity but they are also deepening knowledge of the rules and strategies of the game.
They’ve even turned casual players into avid fans, filling stadiums and cheering from the stands.
So, while the narrative around video games often veers toward the negative, it’s clear that sports games are proving to be more than just fun—they’re a gateway to fitness, fandom, and a richer connection with the world of sports.
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