Harnessing human capital to drive creativity and innovation.
In the U.S. alone, the video game industry has more than tripled in size in the last decade, growing from $15.2 billion in 2012 to $57.2 billion in 2023. Today, the industry creates and supports more than 350,000 jobs across the United States, with incomes averaging $168,600—more than double the national average salary.
Video game production relies on high-tech workers whose productivity and ingenuity make the industry competitive. ESA member companies invest in educating and training the workforce of the future.
Beyond video game developers and creators, the industry now supports a robust ecosystem of influencers who have built careers off of playing video games and sharing their experiences with their online fans and followers.
Building a robust talent pipeline to succeed globally.
A key characteristic of the video game industry is that it is an entrepreneurial industry, open to new business innovations and business entrants. As a result, the video game industry of today has influence in every state, with college programs, esports teams and/or company locations in all 50 U.S. states, District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.Over 400 colleges and universities across the country now offer programs in video game-related topics, preparing students for high-paying STEM careers.
While we continue to invest in developing the STEAM talent pipeline here in the U.S., there remains a shortage of U.S.-born workers with the necessary, specialized skills to fill the tens of thousands of technology-based jobs that are currently available across the country.
The video game industry supports immigration policies that include provisions for increasing the number of highly skilled applicants from around the world, highly educated students and esports athletes
Latest News
- Press Releases
The US Video Game Industry Urges Lawmakers to Keep Esports Alive in Nevada
The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) today calls upon Nevada lawmakers to abandon legislation establishing a first-of-its-kind government regulatory scheme with barriers that would ultimately harm the state’s vibrant and growing esports ecosystem.
04.29.2021
- Industry Updates
Training the Video Game Industry’s Next Generation: A Conversation with Elizabeth Stringer
Elizabeth Stringer helped introduce the first generation of lifelong gamers to the world of video games. Now she’s training the next generation to move the industry further.
03.18.2021
- Industry Updates
Toyz Electronics: Changing the Game for Kids in Underserved Communities
From bringing kids to Carnegie Mellon to creating VR games teaching kids about coding, Toyz Electronics is making a concentrated effort to change the game for kids in underserved communities.
02.27.2021
- DE&I
Into the Metaverse and Beyond: How Diversity in Video Games Drives a More Diverse Future
One thing has become abundantly clear in the social awakening that followed the murder of George Floyd. To make progress, we must deliberately and intentionally make diversity, equity and inclusion a priority at every level – from our work environments to the online worlds we create and inhabit.
02.09.2021
