Western Mobile Gamers Outspend Their Eastern Counterparts by Twice as Much In-Game

As the year 2023 unfolds, mobile gaming continues to assert its dominance, accounting for a substantial 56% share of gaming revenue, according to data from data.ai and IDC. In this article, we delve into a recent study that sheds light on the intriguing disparities in mobile gaming behaviors between Eastern and Western regions.

Where Preferences Diverge: Customization vs. Gameplay Focus

A comprehensive study conducted by Coda Payments has scrutinized the spending habits of mobile gamers across Eastern and Western regions. Surprisingly, it found that over 90% of mobile gamers in both regions are open to making in-game purchases. However, significant differences emerge in how consumers allocate their funds.

Eastern Preferences: In Eastern countries, the focus lies on personalization through customization and collectibles. Gamers here invest in cosmetics to enhance their in-game experience.

Western Preferences: In contrast, Western gamers prioritize gameplay and progression, funneling their spending towards unlocking new features that enhance their gameplay. On average, Western consumers shell out a hefty $72.47 per month on direct purchases, dwarfing the $30.70 spent in the East. This difference can be attributed to the stronger currency in Western nations, granting users in places like Britain and the USA greater spending power.

Noteworthy Gender Trends: Women Embrace Mobile Gaming

Interestingly, the report highlights a captivating trend where female gamers in Western countries outspend their male counterparts by an average of $22.93. This phenomenon underscores the growing popularity of mobile gaming among women, marking a significant shift in the gaming landscape.

Payment Preferences: E-Wallets vs. Debit/Credit Cards

Payment preferences also diverge between the two regions. E-wallets reign supreme in the East, while Western consumers predominantly opt for debit and credit cards when making payments for their mobile gaming endeavors.

Time in-Game: Eastern vs. Western Commitment

The study doesn't stop at spending habits; it also delves into the time gamers dedicate to mobile gaming. Remarkably, gamers in the East devote more time to their screens, with a staggering 40% playing for over 16 hours weekly. In the West, this figure stands at 33%.

Eastern Leaderboard: Thailand emerges as the leader in the East, with 45% of gamers highly engaged, followed by Indonesia (43%) and the Philippines (40%).

Western Standout: In the West, Brazil stands out with 36% of gamers spending over 16 hours in-game, surpassing Mexico (33%) and the USA (30%). This data underscores Latin America's prominence in the rapidly expanding mobile gaming market, particularly in Brazil, a mobile gaming powerhouse responsible for 38% of all domestically developed games.

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