A new global study commissioned by Logitech G suggests attitudes toward esports and professional gaming careers are continuing to evolve, particularly among younger audiences raised on competitive PC gaming, streaming platforms, and online multiplayer ecosystems.

The research found growing support for formal education pathways into esports and professional gaming, with nearly two-thirds of respondents saying universities, colleges, and specialist institutions should offer more structured routes into the industry.

More than half of those surveyed also now consider professional gaming to be a legitimate career choice, highlighting how competitive gaming is increasingly moving beyond its niche roots into a recognised part of the wider digital entertainment economy.

Younger audiences driving esports acceptance

Support for esports careers was strongest among younger generations, with 67% of Gen Z and 60% of Millennials advocating for more formal education pathways into professional gaming and esports.

The findings reflect the continued growth of PC esports titles and creator-led gaming culture, where competitive play, livestreaming, coaching, and content creation have opened up a wider range of career opportunities beyond professional competition alone.

Regional differences were also evident throughout the study, particularly between Western and Asian markets where esports infrastructure and mainstream acceptance have historically developed at different rates.

Derek Perez, Global Communications Gaming lead at Logitech G, comments: “This research shows how far esports and gaming have come – not only as entertainment, but as a genuine path to personal and professional success. However, more can be done to support younger generations in pursuing careers in professional gaming.

“The more companies like Logitech support athletes and the industry overall, the more opportunities there will be for people around the world to pursue roles in esports.”

 

Industry legitimacy remains a challenge

Despite growing cultural acceptance, the survey suggests the esports industry still faces ongoing credibility challenges among wider audiences.

Respondents identified financial uncertainty, intense competition, and limited parental or societal support as key barriers preventing professional gaming from being viewed in the same way as more traditional career paths.

One in five respondents also said the absence of formal qualifications or recognised educational pathways contributes to the perception that professional gaming is not a “real” profession.

At the same time, awareness of the demands associated with competitive gaming continues to grow. Globally, 84% of respondents described professional gaming as mentally demanding, while more than half also viewed it as physically demanding.

 

Education and infrastructure in focus

Education emerged as one of the clearest themes in the study, with nearly half of respondents saying schools should offer esports classes alongside traditional sports programmes.

Meanwhile, 65% supported formal university, college, or specialist training routes into the industry, reflecting growing demand for structured development pathways across the esports ecosystem.

Respondents also pointed to greater mainstream media exposure, improved access to training facilities, and more transparency around earnings as factors that could help professional gaming gain wider legitimacy.

As esports infrastructure continues to mature, access to high-performance peripherals and reliable gaming hardware is also becoming an increasingly important part of player development and competitive performance.

Derek Perez concludes: “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 is committed to empowering everyone – from aspiring esports stars to everyday gamers – with gear designed for precision and reliability.

“With products like the PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE, the first gaming mouse to feature a Haptic Inductive Trigger System, and the Logitech G512 X TMR Analog/Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, our most versatile keyboard ever, we help all gamers perform at their best, whether competing on the world stage or building skills for life beyond the game.”

For more information about the range of Logitech G products available to those pursuing professional gaming, visit the official Logitech G website.