According to the NPD, gamers rely on word of mouth from others to get information about games. Hands-on play at friends or relative’s homes is next followed by Magazines and online ads. Five percent of gamers are influenced by social networking sites.

“When it comes to developing successful games and targeting marketing and promotions, each gaming platform has its own unique challenges and opportunities to consider,” said Anita Frazier, industry analyst, The NPD Group.

In the US, 14 percent of Wii owners also own a Playstation 3 and 26 percent own an Xbox 360. Playstation 3 owners (10% of all gamers) are broken down into 42 percent own a Wii and 34 percent own a Xbox 360. When it comes to Xbox 360 owners (20% of gamers) 42 percent own a Wii but only 18 percent own a PS3.

The NPD now has gamer demographics at 56 percent male and 44 percent female.

What influences you the most in your decision to purchase a video game?