A recent survey conducted by Ampere Analysis and reported by Video Games Chronicle shows that single-player games remain the preferred choice for most gamers in the UK, US, and Japan as of 2025. The data was collected from over 34,000 players across 22 global markets, revealing some interesting trends about player preferences in these major gaming hubs.
According to the survey, 58% of players in the UK prefer single-player games, with the figure rising to 65% in the US and 63% in Japan. Other notable markets with a preference for single-player titles include Thailand (62%) and Germany (60%). Conversely, countries like China and Sweden showed a stronger preference for multiplayer games, with less than 50% favoring solo play.
Why Single-Player Still Wins
Even though multiplayer games have the advantage of ongoing content and monetization potential, single-player games appeal broadly due to their rich storytelling and immersive experiences. Ampere’s senior research manager, Louise Wooldridge, pointed out that single-player games continue to be viable and sought-after despite the industry’s increasing focus on live service models.
Single-player games offer players the chance to experience a complete narrative on their own terms, without the pressure or unpredictability of playing with others. This makes them particularly popular among older age groups, with the survey showing 64% of players aged 55-64 preferring single-player games, compared to just 49% in the 16-24 age bracket.
Physical Games Still Hold Ground
Physical game sales, while declining globally, still hold significant market share, especially for single-player games. Reports indicate that in Europe, some Nintendo titles sell up to 80% in physical format, highlighting a regional preference that counters the broader trend towards digital purchases.
In the UK, boxed game sales dropped to around 10% of all new game sales by 2024 when including PC titles, reflecting the rise of digital downloads and streaming. However, physical games remain a substantial part of consumer spending due to collector interest, special editions, and markets with less robust digital infrastructure.
The Future of Gaming Preferences
These findings suggest that while the gaming industry continues to invest heavily in multiplayer and live service experiences, there remains a durable and significant audience craving traditional single-player games. Studio and publisher strategies might benefit from balancing ongoing multiplayer content with deep single-player experiences to capture the widest market.
As the industry evolves, understanding the nuances of player preferences across different regions and demographics will become increasingly important. The contrast between younger players favoring multiplayer and older players leaning towards single-player highlights generational divides in gaming tastes that could shape future game development.
FAQs
Do most players in the UK, US, and Japan prefer single-player or multiplayer games?
According to a 2025 survey, the majority in these countries prefer single-player games—58% in the UK, 65% in the US, and 63% in Japan.
How does age affect gaming preferences?
Older players are more likely to prefer single-player games, with 64% of players aged 55-64 favoring solo play, compared to 49% of players aged 16-24.
Are physical games still popular?
Yes, physical game sales remain strong in certain regions, particularly for single-player titles and on platforms like Nintendo, where physical sales can reach 80% of total sales.
Why do single-player games remain popular despite the rise of multiplayer games?
Single-player games offer rich narratives and immersive experiences without dependence on other players, appealing to a broad range of gamers.
Is digital gaming overtaking physical game sales?
Globally, digital game sales dominate, but physical games still make up a significant portion of sales, especially in Europe and for specific genres and platforms.
Conclusion
Even in 2025’s multiplayer-driven gaming landscape, single-player games continue to hold a strong place in players’ hearts, especially in key markets like the UK, US, and Japan. While digital sales surge globally, physical copies remain important for many gamers, showing that industry strategies should still value diverse player preferences to maximize engagement and satisfaction.