Contents
Introduction
SHIBUYA109 lab. has expanded its annual survey to delve into the gaming preferences of around 20-year-old men, presenting the inaugural “SHIBUYA109 lab. Men’s Trend Grand Prize 2023.” This article delves into the dynamic realm of gaming preferences among the Z-generation men, as unveiled by the recent SHIBUYA109 lab. Men’s Trend Grand Prize 2023 survey. Exploring the evolving landscape of gaming, it scrutinizes the diverse experiences that capture the attention of young male gamers aged 15 to 24.
On the white paper released by SHIBUYA109 lab. in collaboration with GATSBY Men, entitled “SHIBUYA109 lab.×GATSBY Men’s White Paper 2023”, it is revealed that games is the top thing that Generation Z males spend the most money on. What are the top games that Japanese Gen Z’s are into?
Top Contenders in the Game Category
1st Place: プロ野球スピリッツ (Pro Yakyū Spirits)
Pro Yakyuu Spirits takes the lead, allowing players to engage in matches and player development using real baseball players. Its simplicity in operation and the real-time multiplayer feature contributed to its popularity, especially with the boost from WBC Japan victory.
2nd Place: 原神 (Genshin Impact)
Genshin Impact, set in a vast and fictional world, secured the second position. Players can immerse themselves in story progression, character development, and action, with the added appeal of being playable on various platforms, including PC and smartphones. The game gained further traction with a significant update, and users actively share their gacha experiences on social media.
3rd Place: ポケモンスリープ (Pokémon Sleep)
Image Source: Pokemon Sleep on Google Play
Pokémon Sleep, an app game focused on measuring, recording, and analyzing sleep time using sound and vibration, claimed the third spot. Surprisingly, even those not typically drawn to gaming have embraced the app, driven by the desire to understand the quality of their sleep.
Zelda and Monster Hunter also made it to the list as 4th and 5th rank.
The Rise of “Edutainment” Gaming
One of the prominent trends observed is the emphasis on “edutainment” in gaming. Z-generation men are seeking games that not only offer an enjoyable gaming experience but also contribute to their overall well-being. The ability to seamlessly transition between devices and the inclination to share gaming experiences on social media platforms are notable aspects of this evolving trend. Moreover, the emphasis on “Edutainment” – the combination of entertainment and educational value – has added a new layer to the gaming experience.
Conclusion
SHIBUYA109 lab.’s foray into understanding the gaming preferences of young men provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the gaming industry. The prominence of diverse gaming experiences, the popularity of titles with real-world connections, and the increasing demand for edutainment in gaming all point towards a dynamic and multifaceted future for the gaming community. As the industry continues to innovate, it will be fascinating to see how these trends shape the gaming landscape in the coming years.
Data source: SHIBUYA109 lab.