A new global study commissioned by Logitech G reveals that 65% of people worldwide support formal education pathways for careers in esports and professional gaming. The findings, based on surveys of 18,000 respondents across 12 countries, highlight a growing acceptance of professional gaming as a legitimate career option, particularly among younger generations, while older demographics and certain regions remain skeptical.
According to the Logitech G PRO Series Survey, 54% of global respondents now view professional gaming as a viable career path. However, attitudes vary sharply by age: 67% of Gen Z and 60% of Millennials agree, compared to only 37% of Baby Boomers. Regional disparities are also notable. For example, nearly three-quarters (74%) of Baby Boomers in China consider professional gaming a legitimate career, whereas only 20% of their counterparts in Germany share that view. 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."
The survey indicates that professional gaming still lags behind traditional careers in perceived respectability. Only 8% of respondents consider it a respectable career, on par with musicians (9%) and professional racers (8%). In contrast, healthcare professionals (55%), lawyers (33%), and teachers (30%) top the list. Despite this, 40% of people say professional gaming is more aspirational in 2026 than it was a decade ago, while 44% believe politics is less desirable. Barriers to entry include perceived financial risk (42%), industry competitiveness (34%), and lack of parental and societal support (31%).
There is widespread recognition of the demands of competitive gaming. Over a third (37%) support including esports in the Olympic Games, rising to 49% among Gen Z. Furthermore, 84% believe professional gaming is mentally demanding, and 55% agree it is physically demanding. The survey also reveals that 47% of respondents think schools should include esports in the curriculum alongside traditional sports, with strong support in China (77%), Switzerland (73%), and the USA (46%), but more cautious views in the UK (32%), France (36%), and Germany (29%).
To enhance the legitimacy of professional gaming careers, respondents call for more media coverage and professional training facilities (33%), greater transparency around earnings (32%), and inclusion in major global sporting events (30%). Derek Perez noted: "Ensuring access to training, facilities, and technology is essential in ensuring the continued growth of careers in professional gaming." As a leader in gaming technology, Logitech G aims to empower aspiring esports stars with products like the PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE and the Logitech G512 X TMR Analog/Mechanical Gaming Keyboard.