Russian Gamers Adjust Spending Habits Amidst Market Shifts
A recent analytical project by T-Bank, known as T-Data, has shed light on the evolving habits of Russian gamers, revealing a significant shift in how they engage with and spend money on interactive entertainment. The study, which surveyed over 1,000 Russians aged 18 and above across all regions, alongside anonymized T-Bank customer data, indicates that more than half of respondents have reduced their spending on video games in 2025.
Gaming Popularity and Platforms
Despite the cutbacks, gaming remains a popular pastime. Over 61% of Russians regularly play video games: 27% daily, 20% several times a week, and 14% a few times a month. PC gaming remains dominant, favored by 77% of respondents, who could select multiple platforms. Mobile devices come in second at 48%, while console gaming is less common, chosen by just 17%.
Interestingly, while PC gaming holds a large share, the demand for graphics cards saw a 27% year-on-year drop in the first quarter of 2025. Overall spending on PC hardware decreased by 15%, but the average purchase value increased by 16% compared to the same period in 2024. Peaks in hardware demand between 2022 and 2025 were observed in August (likely for back-to-school purchases) and December (for holiday gifts or using year-end bonuses).
Adapting to New Payment Methods
The study highlights that various limitations and sanctions have prompted 57% of respondents to buy games less frequently, with 36% significantly reducing their overall spending in the sector. This has spurred a search for alternative payment solutions to access new titles.
- Banking Services (25%): These lead the pack, with T-Bank analysts attributing their popularity to customer trust in established brands.
- Electronic Wallets (21%): Following closely, e-wallets offer another convenient option.
- Digital Top-Up Marketplaces (18%): These services complete the top three.
These new methods are primarily used for topping up in-game wallets (40%), purchasing game keys (32%), and subscribing to services (30%). Gamers also use them for in-game currency (28%), items (23%), and less frequently for season/battle passes (12%) and accounts (8%).
When it comes to digital storefronts, Steam is the clear favorite among Russians, capturing a 59% share. Epic Games Store follows with 24%, likely boosted by its free game giveaways. Battle.net (13%), GOG (8%), and Uplay (6%) are less popular. Most surveyed gamers (27%) buy games every few months, while others purchase monthly (22%) or several times a year (21%).
PC Peripherals and Gaming Clubs
Nearly half of the respondents (49%) reported no change in their preferences for gaming peripherals over the last couple of years. Western brands remain dominant (41%), followed by Chinese (17%) and Russian brands (14%). Almost a third (29%) stated they replace their peripherals less often, with 10% opting for cheaper alternatives when they do upgrade.
While the number of cyber cafes has grown recently, interest in them saw a 2% year-on-year decline in the first half of 2025. However, the average cost per visit increased by 9%, from 332 to 362 rubles. Most respondents (85%) do not visit cyber cafes. For those who do, the primary reasons are spending time with friends (69%), the unique atmosphere (38%), and participating in tournaments (18%). Only 7% visit because they don't own a PC at home. Cyber cafes are most popular in winter and predominantly attract men (84% of visitors), with three-quarters of guests under 25. Interestingly, 28% of female visitors are between 35 and 49, suggesting mothers might be accompanying children or paying for them.
The T-Bank study highlights a dynamic period for the Russian gaming market. While core engagement remains strong, players are actively adapting their spending habits and embracing new payment solutions in response to broader market challenges. This indicates a resilient, if evolving, gaming community focused on finding new ways to enjoy their hobby.
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