Emerging
Gaming is now cross-generational
The youth-centric frame is obsolete, but a simple 'aging' frame is too. Co-play, generational span, and household spending are where audience research is heading.
Where it stands
Play now spans generations: 212.3 million Americans play weekly, the average player age has risen to 37, half of Boomers play weekly, and over a third of adults 80+ play, with Boomer women out-playing Boomer men. Adults were always the core; what is new is the span at both ends. Earlier editions found most parent-players play with their kids. The unit of analysis is shifting from 'gamers' to households.
Further reading
The timeline, consequences and objections for this trend are not written yet. What it is and its reading list are above.