TIGA points to research claiming 93% of Scottish households play games
A new study by UK telecom regulator Ofcom offers verifiable proof that games are culturally relevant, a trade body has said.
Ofcom’s recently published survey has found that 93 per cent of households with children in Scotland own a games console.
The research also found that, after television, playing games would be the entertainment pastime most missed if not available to households.
Now British game industry group TIGA says that the data is evidence of videogames’ cultural significance in the UK.
“Video games are embedded in Scottish culture and society in particular and the UK more generally,” said TIGA CEO Richard Wilson.
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“Video games can reflect society, make cultural commentary, use narrative and can be highly artistic. Video games also interact with other forms of media, for example, inspiring film, television and music.”
Wilson also called on the new UK coalition government to set aside cash for game development tax breaks.
What is the percentage of households in Scotland that have children? If that is only 50%, for instance, then 93% of this 50% figure isn't as relevant as the announcement is attempting to convey.
Also, similarly statistics about the number of households with indoor toilet facilities, refrigerators, or microwave ovens could equally be compiled to prove that these necessities would equally be missed.
Not every household will have a washing machine but a higher proportion may have a computer, or a television set. You could argue that this is more indicative of cultural relevance.
Be wary of ulterior motives when regulator and competition authorities are reporting statistics in case the statutory corporation is compiling results for the Government's attention. Taxation rises to consumers may follow, not taxation breaks to suppliers.
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