Nearly half of American kids want in-game currency for Christmas

Nearly half of children in the United States plan to ask for in-game currency this Christmas, according to a new survey from the Entertainment Software Association published by GamesIndustry.biz.

The research shows that video games rank among the top three most desired holiday gifts. Almost three out of five children aged 5 to 17 say they intend to ask Santa for gaming-related items. 43% specifically hope to receive V-Bucks, Robux or other forms of digital in-game currency.

Beyond virtual money, 39% of kids want a gaming console, and 37% are hoping for physical games. ESA surveyed more than 700 children across the U.S. to compile its ranking of the most requested gifts.

More than half of young gamers say they want to spend more time playing with their parents. The trend is particularly strong among the youngest group: 73% of children aged 5 to 7 say they want to play games with mom and dad.

Adults are also prepared to spend. One in three Americans plans to buy gaming-related gifts this year. On average, shoppers expect to spend about $500 on gaming products, while parents say they are willing to allocate roughly $737 on presents for their children.