New information from the US has revealed that twice as many adult women compared to men under 25 years old are now playing games online. This comes as something of a surprise, as the typical image of a gamer tends to be young and male. The introduction of gaming opportunities on mobile phones and tablets and via social media seems to have opened up the gaming world in a way that perhaps was not anticipated. Here are a few tips on which games women are playing:
Console games
Among the most popular games with women are Just Dance, Candy Crush and The Sims. The American statistics reveal the market percentage for each of these is greater for females than males. For example, 63% of Just Dance players are women. The number of women playing Super Mario Bros, Dance Central and Wii Sports is also catching up. A study in the UK in 2014 discovered that 56% of women gamers have played on a console.
Phones
Described as a ‘red carpet adventure’, the app Kim Kardashian: Hollywood has taken the iPhone and Android gaming audiences by storm, especially among women, who dominate the number of players. Other games that are popular among women who play on phones include card games, such as Solitaire, and puzzles. You can use a phone or tablet and pause your game if you are interrupted, and then resume it when you’re ready – perfect for busy mums.
Tablets and laptops
Betting games are growing in popularity among women, and casinos are making the most of the opportunity to interest more people in betting online. Online sports betting has gone beyond having the traditional flutter on the Grand National, although experts still say it’s better to choose one sport to follow rather than spreading bets around. If you’re keen to try an online casino, perhaps for fun games of chance such as bingo, or more skilful strategy games such as poker, make a New Year’s betting resolution and stick to the professional advice on offer.
Many women particularly enjoy the bingo rooms where they can chat online, as well as play. There are options for slots and classic bingo games, as well as new customised games with a twist. Research in the UK in 2014 found that already 52% of gamers were women, one third of whom preferred word games, such as Scrabble, puzzles or trivia. It seems that 68% of women gamers had played online.
Playing with children
Finally, when mums are entertaining children, there are several console games that are suitable, depending on age and personal preference. It’s also worth remembering, however, that sometimes a good old-fashioned board game such as Snakes and Ladders or Explore Europe can be just as entertaining and informative as the many electronic options. Then there’s always a deck of cards and the universally loved game of Snap for the very young, or teach the older kids the basics of poker – using matchsticks or Monopoly money.
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