Video Games Shed Stigma, Become Cultural Cornerstone in France
PARIS – Once a pastime relegated to niche circles, video gaming has surged into the mainstream in France, now embraced as a notable cultural force adn a thriving economic sector, according to a new report by SELL (Syndicat des Éditeurs de Logiciels de Loisirs). The study reveals a dramatic shift in public perception, with the majority of French citizens viewing gaming positively and a growing number identifying as “gamers.”
The transformation reflects a broader societal acceptance of digital leisure activities and the evolving role of video games as social hubs. SELL data indicates 23% of French players feel a sense of community through gaming, and a substantial 60% have forged online friendships directly through their shared hobby. This communal aspect is reshaping the landscape of entertainment, turning video games into “a real relational media where friendships, exchanges and belonging to communities are woven,” as James Rebours observes.
Notably, 39% of players now proudly self-identify as “gamer,” a label that carried a stigma just decades ago. This cultural shift is accompanied by increased spending, with the average French gamer now investing €119 annually – a 13% increase – and 17.8 million subscribing to game platforms like Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus at an average of €19 per month. Despite the rise of digital downloads, a preference for physical copies remains strong, with 67% of French players choosing to purchase games in boxed format, often to resell or build collections.
Beyond the economic impact, the report highlights overwhelmingly positive public sentiment. an impressive 81% of French citizens consider the video game industry “innovative,” while 77% recognize game developers as “real artists.” Moreover,64% view gaming as a “positive” activity,and 62% believe it fosters skill progress. The demographic is also becoming increasingly diverse, with near gender parity – 51% male and 49% female players – signaling a broadening appeal across all segments of French society.
