ABSTRACT
For game designers, the two most significant demographic variables are age and gender. Some return to games they enjoyed when they were younger, and others, looking for a change, turn to new game experiences. Adults in this age group are particularly interested in game experiences that have a strong social component, such as golf, and online multiplayer games. Something important to remember when creating games for any age group: all play activities are connected to childhood, since childhood is centered around play. Generalizations and stereotypes are never true for every individual, but when making games for large audiences, they can be useful tools of inclusion. Games like the Sims and Farmville demand significant multitasking skill, and both have a majority of players who are female. The girls seemed to enjoy the social aspects of the game more than the boys did—they would constantly shout warnings and suggestions to each other, occasionally having face-to-face “huddles” where they would divide up responsibilities.
