The stereotype of a gamer is often seen as some loner guy sitting in his basement playing endless hours of video games. A recent study from the Entertainment Software Association will only help to further rebuff this portrayal. According to the ESA, women make up approximately 40% of the American gaming population, moving female players even more closely into the mainstream of gaming culture.

While that percentage itself is interesting, the survey reported other findings as well. The average age of all gamers has risen to 35. Additionally, one out every four is over 50 years of age. On the front of minors playing games, there were some other encouraging statistics. Parents were reported as present during 94% of all video game rentals or purchases, 88% of parents carefully monitor what their children play, and best of all, 63% believe that gaming is a positive part of their children's lives.

Considering the constant controversy around adult-themed video games such as the often maligned Grand Theft Auto series, this can only be good news for both gamers and industry critics alike.