December 8, 2025 — Leads & Copy —
A recent study by Logitech G reveals a significant cultural shift in how young Australian men socialize, with online gaming surpassing traditional pubs and bars in popularity. The study, conducted by Antenna Insights, surveyed over 1,500 Australians aged 18-45 and found that 61% of Gen Z Australian men (18-24 years old) prefer connecting with friends through online gaming rather than going to a pub or bar.
The study also found that nearly half (49%) of all 18-24-year-old respondents favor a video gaming night in with friends over going out to the pub. This trend extends to one-third (34%) of all respondents aged 18-45.
According to Logitech G, the shift highlights online gaming as a facilitator of social connection, particularly among younger Australian men. Data showed the affordability, relaxing benefits, and convenience of organizing gaming nights as key drivers, with 54% citing affordability, 47% citing relaxation, and 42% citing ease of organization.
Online gaming is also becoming a top “third space” in Australia, defined as a hub outside home and work that drives social connection. Approximately 18% of Australians consider online gaming their primary third space, second only to cafes and restaurants (32%) but ahead of pubs and bars (16%). This trend is more pronounced among Gen Z men, with 38% citing online gaming as their primary social connection space.
Frequent gamers also enjoy more social time, approximately 3.8 hours more per week, and report higher friendship satisfaction, especially among daily male gamers. Moreover, 73% of gamers use online play to maintain long-distance friendships.
These findings coincide with the launch of Logitech G’s Astro A20 X Gaming Headset, which features PLAYSYNC technology for easy console switching, enabling players to connect with different friend groups across various games.
According to Daniel Hall, Senior Category Manager at Logitech G ANZ, online gaming has become a crucial platform for building and strengthening friendships, allowing for more frequent connections and long-lasting social bonds. This study provides a reflection of changing social dynamics with digital platforms increasing in importance.
Matthew Mortellaro can be contacted via mmortellaro@logitech.com
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/58fdefae-e6a5-43fe-88cd-9fcb9730e77d
Source: Logitech
