As Fortnite starts to resemble a new kind of social network, it’s eating into the time that players spend with other social media–and other forms of entertainment for that matter. A survey by National Research Group says weekly Fortnite players now spend 21% of their free time with the game, and spend 3% less time on social media, which now accounts for 16% of players’ free time.
[Image: courtesy of National Research Group]Beyond just being an enjoyable first-person shooter,Fortnitejust makes players feel better compared to social media. Survey respondents said the game was more likely to help them forget about real-life problems, express themselves without fear of bullying, act on feelings they can’t in everyday life, and increase their self-confidence.
Players also said the game makes them feel like they’re not alone and helps them cope with stress. (One counterpoint not mentioned in the survey: Some Fortnite players say they feel pressure to spend money on costumes and other cosmetic items to avoid being harassed in the game.)
advertisement
[Image: courtesy of National Research Group]Despite all the good feelings,Fortnitestill has some catching up to do with social media in terms of usage, at least for older crowds. Among kids ages 10-12, 53% reported playingFortniteat least once a week, versus 38% for both Facebook and Instagram, but social networking is far more popular among other age groups. Among kids 13-17, Instagram was used weekly by 64%, and Facebook was used weekly by 53%, versus 33% forFortnite. The 18-24 age group reported 64% weekly Instagram use, 58% weekly Facebook use, and just 19% weeklyFortniteplay.
Recognize your brand’s excellence by applying to this year’s Brands That Matter Awards before the early-rate deadline, May 3.
The latest innovations in design brought to you every weekday.
