Video games drawing women

Challenging the stereotype that video games are the domain of teenage boys, an industry group reported that 26% of game players are women 18 or older, while 21% are boys 6 to 17.

According to Wired News, the industry has worked to publish games catering to women and older players, in addition to young people. The average age of players has risen to 29, according to the study, released by the Entertainment Software Assn. and conducted by Peter D. Hart Research Associates.

The company polled 806 adults, covering a total of 1,048 game players. Adults over 50 represent 17% of the gaming population and 13% of all games sold carry a “Mature” rating. Men 18 and up make up the largest group (38%), and young girls account for 12%.

The average participant plays for 6.5 hours a week.

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-- Elaine Dutka