A global study commissioned by Logitech G and released today reveals that nearly two-thirds of people worldwide (65%) support more formal education pathways in esports and gaming for aspiring professionals. The Logitech G PRO Series Survey, conducted by Censuswide, also found that over half (54%) of respondents globally believe professional gaming is a legitimate career path, though attitudes vary significantly by generation and region.
The survey, which polled 18,000 respondents across 12 markets, highlights a stark generational gap: 67% of Gen Z and 60% of Millennials agree professional gaming is a legitimate career, compared to just 37% of Baby Boomers. This divide is particularly pronounced in Germany, where only 20% of Baby Boomers see it as a legitimate career, versus 74% in China. Derek Perez, Global Communications Gaming lead at Logitech G, commented: "This research shows how far esports and gaming have come – not only as entertainment, but as a genuine path to personal and professional success."
Professional gaming is still viewed as less respectable than traditional careers like healthcare (55%), law (33%), teaching (30%), and engineering (28%). However, it ranks on par with musicians (9%), professional racers (8%), and politicians (7%). The survey also found that 40% of respondents say professional gaming is more aspirational in 2026 than it was a decade ago, while only 1% of Boomers and 3% of Gen X would encourage a young person to become a professional gamer.
Key barriers to pursuing a career in professional gaming include financial risk (42%), industry competitiveness (34%), lack of parental and societal support (31%), and the perception that it is a hobby rather than a real job (42%). Despite these challenges, 37% globally support adding esports to the Olympic Games, rising to 49% among Gen Z. Additionally, 84% of respondents see professional gaming as mentally demanding, and 55% as physically demanding.
The survey underscores a strong appetite for educational support: 47% believe schools should include esports classes in the curriculum, with support highest in Switzerland (73%), China (77%), and the USA (46%), but lower in the UK (32%), France (36%), and Germany (29%). Respondents also called for more media coverage and professional training facilities (33%), transparency around earnings (32%), and inclusion in major global sporting events (30%) to enhance the career's legitimacy.
Perez concluded: "Ensuring access to training, facilities, and technology is essential. As a leader in gaming technology, Logitech G is committed to empowering everyone with gear designed for precision and reliability." The study involved 1,500 respondents per market from the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Poland, Switzerland, Sweden, USA, Brazil, South Korea, China, and Australia. More information is available at www.logitechg.com.
