A new report entitled Video Gamers in Europe 2008 from ISFE-Nielsen research claims that gaming is now the most popular leisure activity for people aged between 16 and 49 across Europe.

Gaming now rivals even TV in terms of the hours we all spend doing it, the report says. People claim that gaming is a fun way to spend their time that also stimulates their imagination and helps keep them mentally fit.

The research states that 40 per cent of Europeans now play games for between six to 14 hours per week, and that the activity is recognised for having unique benefits.

81 per cent of parents who play are said to do so with their children. In addition, half of those who claim never to play games simply cite lack of time as the reason

“Our research findings cement what those who work in the industry understand as a given, namely that videogames hold a recognized place in today’s entertainment culture,” ISFE chairman Jens Uwe Intat stated.

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“The people that are video gaming today are of all ages, of both genders and of all nationalities. As an industry, we offer a huge variety of entertainment choices for all tastes and skill levels, and adult tax payers, grandparents and kids alike are playing in the way that suits them best.”