Gen Z gamers prefer shooting games and action/adventure games, according to an April 2024 survey by Collage Group. The most popular shooting games among the generation have online, multiplayer components that make it easy to play with others. This social dimension appeals to Gen Zers, among whom a desire to “connect with other people” is one of the top three reasons to play.

Discord is a constant companion for Gen Z gamers. Discord has become integral to younger gamers: Among teens who play games, 44% who identify as gamers use it, compared with 20% who don’t identify as gamers. The messaging app allows players to communicate via voice or text and is often used to coordinate tactics while playing a collaborative game. Discord servers, which can be public or private, typically center on a specific topic, with different channels on subtopics (similar to Slack). This has allowed Gen Zers and millennials to build organized, digital communities away from traditional social media platforms. Twitch, a platform dedicated primarily to gaming livestreams, is also popular in gaming spaces. However, it lacks the interactive component that has made Discord a leader in collaborative play.

Read the full report, US Gamers by Generation 2025.