According to a recent study by Razorfish, Gen Z gamers feel more like themselves in the metaverse than they do in the real world.
Said gamers already currently spend twice as much time interacting with friends in the early workings of the metaverse as they do in reality. The question, however, is why does Gen Z feels so much more comfortable in virtual realms?
Gen Z: Mental Health and the Metaverse
The majority of Gen Z gamers believe gaming is good for their mental health. Seventy-seven percent of gamers surveyed stated that they feel less stress and anxiety when gaming. With the chaos of Covid and Russia’s attack on Ukraine, it makes sense that the younger generation seeks solace in a less hectic virtual space.
This also plays into why so many Gen Z gamers feel more themselves in the metaverse. Presenting oneself as a virtual avatar can bolster confidence. Likewise, the anxiety of social and economic status found in the real world melt away when users are all represented as avatars. Also, the metaverse lets users create a new identity while expressing themselves in a safe environment.
Gen Z also uses gaming to make friendships, with 65 percent of gamers cultivating new relationships within game settings. For Gen Z, online friendships seem to advance quicker than traditional friendships as users feel safer opening up online.
Gen Z Gamers Embrace Brands in the Metaverse
Gen Z gamers don’t just tolerate branding in the metaverse; they welcome it. A third of Gen Z gamers want their favorite brands to open up virtual shops in the metaverse. Additionally, Gen Z wants their favored brands to offer clothing for their avatars. Gen Z gamers are projected to spend 20 percent of their leisure budget on digital assets in the metaverse.
While Gen Z embraces the metaverse, another study shows that nearly a third of U.S. adults fear the metaverse. Despite skepticism, many tech giants, including Qualcomm, believe the metaverse offers a grand opportunity. Whatever your feelings about the metaverse, rest assured it’s coming.
Jack Brassell is a freelance journalist and aspiring novelist. Jack is a self-proclaimed nerd with a lifelong passion for storytelling. As an author, Jack writes mostly horror and young adult fantasy. Also an avid gamer, she works as the lead news editor at Hardcore Droid. When she isn't writing or playing games, she can often be found binge-watching Parks & Rec or The Office, proudly considering herself to be a cross between Leslie Knope and Pam Beasley.
