How Much Money Do Children Spend on Video Games in 2025?

Both children and adults love video games. However, the psychological impact of video games is more serious in children than in adults. Studies have shown that children now spend more time playing video games than ever. In fact, young children between the ages of 8 and 12 spend around 6 hours in front of a screen. 

While excessive screen time is not healthy, playing video games can help children develop logical thinking skills. Hence, it is important to find the right balance. Child-friendly video game platforms help ensure a safe experience, which is exactly why parents and kids love Roblox. In the article below, we will explore how much money children are spending on video games in 2025 and share some tips to help parents ensure that their children remain safe from the serious consequences of excessive screen time and gaming. 

The Cost of Gaming in 2025

The total number of gamers worldwide as of today is 3.32 billion. Almost 84% of internet users say they play online video games, with 66% citing that they play for relaxation. The survey includes both kids and adults, showcasing the growing popularity of video games. 

A gaming console, one of the most important components of playing a video game, can easily cost hundreds of dollars. The peripherals, consisting of a gaming controller, headset, and a single game, can push the total expenditure over a thousand dollars. So, each time you buy a new video game, you have to pay anywhere between $5 and $70. The actual cost depends on the type of game that you have chosen. 

Overall Expenditure

A survey conducted by Ipsos, in collaboration with Video Games Europe, found that video game expenditures have decreased. The survey results were based on the answers provided by 2772 parents and guardians. In fact, the total monthly spending on in-game purchases has dropped from  €39 to €31. 

The survey also found that children don’t want to spend on in-game accessories that influence their gameplay, such as specialised weapons and power. In the same study, only 38% of the parents stated that their children requested these purchases. 

Parenting Hacks For a Safe Gaming Experience

Almost 26% of gamers spend 1 to 5 hours playing video games daily. This is alarming, as extensive screen time can delay cognitive development, especially in young children. Too much screen time and video games lead to behavioural disorders in children. 

Moreover, online gaming makes kids more susceptible to cyberbullying, exposure to mature content, addiction, and many other problems. Let us look at some points that ensure a safe online gaming experience for your child: 

Understanding What They Are Playing

Being aware of the games your child plays will give you greater control over their online interactions and the potential risks associated with them. One way you can understand the game is to ask your child to show you how they play it. 

This way, you get a firsthand experience and learn about the content displayed in the game. As an adult, you must understand that peaceful parenting and keeping a close eye on your child’s online activities will enable you to keep them safe.

Choose Reputable Publishers

Always choose reputable publishers for your video games to minimise potential risks. To find child-friendly games and reputable publishers, you can use YouTube or Twitch to understand the gaming experience of different gamers. 

Protect Your Gaming Device With an Antivirus

Your devices are highly susceptible to virus attacks when your child plays online video games. To minimise the risk, installing antivirus software on the device is highly recommended. Reliable software will also protect you from malware and phishing scams. 

Enable Parental Control

Each gaming console has built-in parental control that needs to be set up. With this setting, you can filter the content, limit chat options, and monitor who your child communicates with while playing games. 

Conclusion

While the total expenditure on video games may have decreased, it is still substantial. Video games are a great mode of entertainment and help your child develop cognitive capabilities. However, it is essential to ensure they don’t overindulge and to protect them from mature content that could harm their development.