Global Survey Reveals Growing Support for Formal Esports Education Pathways

A new global study commissioned by Logitech G reveals that nearly two-thirds of people worldwide (65%) support more formal education pathways in esports and gaming for aspiring professionals. The Logitech G PRO Series Survey, conducted by Censuswide with 18,000 respondents across 12 countries, highlights growing acceptance of professional gaming as a legitimate career, though significant generational and regional differences remain.

Over half of respondents globally (54%) now consider professional gaming a legitimate career path. However, attitudes vary sharply by generation: 67% of Gen Z and 60% of Millennials agree, compared to just 37% of Baby Boomers. Regional disparities are also stark. In Germany, only 20% of Baby Boomers view professional gaming as a legitimate career, while in China, 74% do. Derek Perez, Global Communications Gaming lead at Logitech G, commented: "This research shows how far esports and gaming have come – not only as entertainment, but as a genuine path to personal and professional success."

Despite growing acceptance, professional gaming still lags behind traditional careers in respectability. Healthcare professionals (55%), lawyers (33%), teachers (30%), and engineers (28%) top the list of respected careers, while professional gaming (8%) ranks alongside musicians (9%) and professional racers (8%). Only 1% of Baby Boomers and 3% of Gen X would encourage a young person to become a professional gamer, and even among Millennials, just 4% would recommend it. However, 40% of respondents say professional gaming is more aspirational in 2026 than it was in 2016.

Key barriers to pursuing professional gaming include perceived financial risk (42%), industry competitiveness (34%), and lack of parental and societal support (31%). A third of respondents cite lack of job security, while 42% say gaming is still seen as a hobby rather than a valid career. Yet, recognition of the demands of competitive gaming is rising: 84% agree it is mentally demanding, and 55% see it as physically demanding. More than a quarter (27%) believe gamers train 10–12 hours daily, exceeding a standard workday.

There is strong appetite for formal education and inclusion in mainstream institutions. Almost half (47%) think schools should include esports classes in the curriculum, with support highest in Switzerland (73%), China (77%), and the USA (46%), but lower in the UK (32%), France (36%), and Germany (29%). Globally, 65% call for formal education pathways from universities and specialist courses. Respondents also say more media coverage (33%), professional training facilities (33%), transparency around earnings (32%), and inclusion in major sporting events (30%) would boost the career's legitimacy.

Perez concluded: "Ensuring access to training, facilities, and technology is essential in ensuring the continued growth of careers in professional gaming." The study underscores the need for systemic support to bridge the gap between perception and reality for aspiring esports professionals.