Video games are no longer a marginal hobby. Today, they are one of the largest cultural and economic expressions on the planet. According to 2025 data, the global gaming community has reached 3.42 billion people, which equals nearly half of the world’s population. The annual growth rate of 4.5% shows that online gaming is not a passing trend: it is a system in permanent expansion. With the global gaming population surging, the ability to use 1xBet mobile site anywhere is now considered basic functionality.

These figures change the narrative. We are not talking about isolated consumers, but about a massive digital citizenry that inhabits virtual worlds, builds identities, and sustains a creative economy that now competes with traditional industries such as cinema and music. The decisive point is not just the number: it is the cultural and social impact of a generation that understands the world through play.

The Hegemony of Mobile

The most striking fact is the dominant role of mobile. More than 79% of global players access games through smartphones. The phone has become the universal gateway to gaming, especially in emerging markets where consoles or PCs remain a luxury.

Mobile democratized access. You don’t need an expensive device to belong to gaming culture. PUBG Mobile, Free Fire, or Genshin Impact prove that massive communities can be built with nothing more than a touchscreen. Moreover, mobility introduced a radical cultural shift: gaming is no longer confined to the home but accompanies users throughout their day — from public transport to work breaks.

Consoles: Still a Powerful Market

Despite mobile dominance, consoles have not lost their relevance. 55% of players use at least one of these platforms. PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo remain synonymous with prestige, exclusivity, and premium experiences. Their value goes beyond hardware. They are closed ecosystems driving subscription services, esports, and loyal communities. They also represent the continuation of brand narratives within gaming. 

The challenge for consoles is to adapt to a market that demands flexibility — and the answer lies in cross-platform integration, allowing users to carry progress, inventories, and social networks without friction. As highlighted by NewsDay, the implementation of low-fee payments in iGaming apps could pave the way for consoles to adopt more accessible models that are compatible with the multi-platform digital economy.

PC: The Innovation Lab

The PC remains strong with 42% of active players. More than just a platform, it is the space where trends are born and the future of gaming is tested. Professional esports, mod creation, experimentation with new mechanics — all of this happens on PC. Its strength lies in adaptability and in its creative community. In markets such as Asia or Eastern Europe, the PC remains dominant, reinforcing its role as a driver of innovation in the global industry.

The Numbers of 2025 Speak Clearly:

• 3.42 billion gamers worldwide, with annual growth of 4.5%.
• 79% on mobile, confirming smartphone hegemony.
• 55% on consoles, supported by solid ecosystems.
• 42% on PC, consolidating its role as an innovation lab.
• Mobile gaming generates over 50% of global revenues.

These figures project a future where migration across platforms will be the norm, and gamer identity will be independent of hardware.