France: A Nation of Gamers, and a Market Ready for What’s Next
With over 38 million players and an average age of 37, gaming is now a cross-generational cultural staple in France. In 2024, the market recorded its second-highest turnover ever, confirming its strength and its long-term resilience and readiness for future growth.
A Cultural Force That Spans Generations
According to the latest data from Game Track and SELL, 70% of the population, or 38.3 million people, play video games at least occasionally. And they’re not just teens: the average player is 37 years old, and 84% of players are adults.
Younger audiences remain highly engaged, with 95% of 10-to-17-year-olds playing regularly. The average weekly time spent gaming is close to 7 hours, and nearly half of the players play every day (Ipsos/SELL, July 2024). These habits place France among the most active and diverse gaming audiences in Europe.
A Market Settling After a Record-Breaking Year
In 2024, France’s video game industry generated €5.7 billion in revenue, marking a 5.8% decrease from the historic high of 2023, but still the second-best year ever recorded (GSD/Sparkers, SELL 2025).
This slight decline is better understood as a return to normal following an extraordinary 2023, marked by significant hardware recovery and blockbuster releases. Importantly, France’s gaming market has consistently exceeded €5.5 billion over the past five years and is now 14% higher than its pre-COVID-2019 level, highlighting a robust structural foundation.
Three Platforms, One Momentum
The French market is anchored by three key platforms, each contributing in its way:
- Consoles continue to lead with €2.55 billion, representing 45% of the total market.
- Mobile gaming hit a record of €1.6 billion, now 28% of the market.
- PC gaming grew by 9.1% in 2024, reaching €1.5 billion, driven by renewed hardware and accessory sales.
Looking Ahead: 2025 in Play
After a transitional year, the industry anticipates a more dynamic 2025, powered by new consoles, highly anticipated titles, and an increasingly connected audience. Innovation will play a central role — not only in content, but in how games become platforms for new types of experiences and brand interaction.
In this evolving context, initiatives like COMBO! The Gaming Media Network is redefining how brands connect with players at scale — natively, respectfully, and with impact.
