IDG Entertainment has spent 18 years studying game buyers to better understand what gamers have in common and how they differ. Through careful psychographic analysis, IDGE has divided gamers into five distinct segments and will share its findings about this ever-growing and evolving population.

“Today’s gamers have increasingly diverse needs and expectations,” said Simon Tonner, Marketing Director, IDG Entertainment. ”Understanding gamers is more complex and more critical than ever for anyone involved with the interactive entertainment industry. This research will provide brand new data and a depth of methodology that make it truly unique. E for All Expo will be the center of the game universe in October, making it the perfect place to release this research.”

IDC Research will complement the IDGE psychographic gaming study with results from its latest study, Worldwide Connected Console 2007-2011, which provides key data on the console gaming market and how it will impact video game sales opportunities for retailers, publishers, and console manufacturers. Special analysis presented at E for All will focus on the impact downloadable content and episodic games will have on the video game market and what retailers and others need to do to prepare for these advancements.

“IDC will present the most comprehensive research that forecasts revenue derived only from online consoles,” said Billy Pidgeon, program manager of consumer markets, gaming for IDC. “ It is more critical than ever that those in the industry are prepared and are taking advantage of the changes in gaming technology and distribution, and these studies provide important insight in that regard.”

IDGE and IDC will present their in-depth findings on Friday, October 19 during an informal, round table-style discussion and Q&A with retail buyers. Top-line data will be released to the media immediately afterward. Sample questions IDGE and IDC will answer include:

• Who is buying the Wii console and how are they changing the face of the market?
• What are the top three things gamers are looking for in their next game?
• Which gamers are embracing the Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3 as the center of their digital household?

“E for All Expo is all about gamers, and this new research will provide an unprecedented level of understanding about this important market segment,” said Mary Dolaher, CEO of IDG World Expo. “With an increased level of interest in games and the rapid pace at which new game technology is being created, we are thrilled to work with IDGE and IDC to provide this important new element of E for All.”