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The number of American households that play computer or video games has risen to 68 percent, a three percent increase over 2008, according to the Entertainment Software Association, a group that represents U.S. computer and video game publishers.

"This is the new golden age of entertainment software. Our products are now being enjoyed by over two-thirds of Americans," said Michael D. Gallagher, CEO of the ESA.

Michael D. Gallagher

"As the findings of the 2009 Essential Facts illustrate, more and more Americans across all demographics are now embracing the interactive entertainment experience that computer and video games provide."

The ESA found that forty-two percent of American homes have a video game console and adult gamers have been playing for 12 years on average, a decrease from 2008 that indicates more people are picking up video game controllers for the first time.

The average game player is 35 years old and forty-three percent of online game players are female.

More than three-quarters (77%) of parents believe that the parental controls available in all recent game consoles are useful and nearly half (45%) of all games sold are rated 'E' for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Rating Board.

In addition, the report found there is a high level of parental involvement in video game play. More than half (63%) of parents with children under 18 with a gaming console in the home believe games are a positive part of their children's lives.