November 29, 2025 – Microtransactions have firmly entrenched themselves within gaming culture. Last year, a staggering 58% of PC game revenue came from in – game purchases. Several major game publishers, such as Ubisoft, have even claimed that microtransactions can enhance the overall gaming experience.
Despite the high level of consumer interest, a significant number of game creators remain firmly against incorporating microtransaction mechanisms into their works. However, when looking at the latest research data released by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), it’s clear that in – game purchases are here to stay and are unlikely to be shaken in the short term.
The in – game currency system is inherently predatory, and with consumers flocking to it, microtransactions are likely to persist for a long time to come.
ESA’s survey revealed that during this Christmas season, 43% of children in the United States asked their parents for in – game currency. Among the 700 children surveyed, a remarkable 60% planned to buy game – related products during the holiday season. Nearly half (about 49%) of their spending was directly or indirectly related to in – game currency or microtransaction items.
It’s worth noting that despite the growing prevalence of digital media, there is still a strong demand for physical games. 37% of the surveyed children explicitly expressed their desire to receive physical game discs or cartridges.
Gaming consoles have also made it into the top three on the Christmas wish lists of American children. More than a quarter (over 25%) of the surveyed children said they intended to buy console devices.
ESA also found that many children view video games as an important way to enhance family interaction. Most of the respondents said that their interest in games stemmed from a desire to build closer emotional connections with family and friends.
In addition, ESA conducted a questionnaire survey among adults. The results showed that nearly one – third (33%) of parents planned to buy game products for their children this Christmas, including console devices and in – game currency.
Given the strong public demand for video games, this year’s holiday season is set to significantly boost the sales of consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series. And with Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6) scheduled for release during next year’s holiday season, the gaming industry is expected to reach an unprecedented revenue peak.
