A majority of parents say playing video games benefits their children, according to new research released today by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA). The report, 2014 Essential Facts About the Computer and Video Game Industry, reveals that 56 percent of parents say video games are a positive part of their child’s life.

Other key findings include that 68 percent of families with children under 18 at home believe game play provides mental stimulation or education, and more than 50 percent believe games help them spend time together. Moreover, 58 percent of parents whose children are gamers play games with their kids at least monthly, and among parents who play with their kids, 88 percent believe video games are fun for the entire family.

“Parents across America recognize the widespread benefits of video games, including education, mental stimulation, and the bonding opportunities they create for families,” said Michael D. Gallagher, president and CEO of ESA, the trade association that represents the U.S. video game industry. “Video games are a favorite pastime enjoyed by men and women of all ages, and millions worldwide who share their game play experiences with friends and family.”

The report also found that parents monitor their children’s game play. In fact, 95 percent of parents report paying attention to the content of the games their children play, and 91 percent are present when games are purchased or rented. Additionally, 88 percent of parents whose children play games believe the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) video game ratings are either very or somewhat helpful in choosing games for their children.

“Our industry has an unparalleled commitment to helping parents make informed entertainment choices, and these findings underscore the value of the ESRB rating system,” Gallagher said.

The 2014 Essential Facts also provides statistics on gamer demographics; the types of games played and the kinds of game platforms used; the top-selling video games; and other industry sales information. Notable findings include:

• 181.3 million Americans play video games;
• 51 percent of U.S. households own a game console, and those that do own an average of 2;
• The average game player is 31 years old, and 39 percent of game players – the largest age segment – are 36 or older;
• Gamers play on-the-go: 44 percent play on smartphones, and 33 percent play on wireless devices;
• Casual and social game play on mobile devices and online increased in popularity by 55 percent from 2012 to 2013; and
• Consumers spent more than $21 billion on game content, hardware, and accessories in 2013.

Essential Facts is the most in-depth and targeted survey of its kind. It is conducted by Ipsos MediaCT, gathering data from more than 2,200 nationally representative households.

Today, Nexon Europe is thrilled to announce the beginning of the highly anticipated Open Beta for the celebrated online brawler Lost Saga. Offering a series of events with awesome rewards. There has never been a better time to join the burgeoning community – and all are welcome to get involved.

A new batch of beloved brawlers will also be added to the game from 30^th April; characters from classic titles BlazBlue and King of Fighters will be accessible to brush up on their skills in the new playground.

The BlazBlue fighters will be the devilishly-attired Hazama and Ragna, while players yearning for the action of SNK classic King of Fighters can take up arms with the Redflame, Iori, or the flame-fingered Kusanagi Kyo.

Along with the Open Beta starting today, Nexon Europe is offering a series of rewards, attainable via Facebook, YouTube, and by simply logging in every day.

Players that change their Facebook profile picture to one of the characters playable in the Open Beta have the opportunity to win 5,000 NX (Nexon Cash) to spend on any Nexon Europe title in their extensive catalogue, including Lost Saga itself. Similarly, players that invite friends to join the game via Facebook are also eligible for a chance to win 5,000 NX. Users are also invited to review the game at their leisure on YouTube, and in doing so can be in the running to win even more Nexon Cash (NX).

Artists will also have their chance to win rewards with the Comic Strip Event. If players can come up with an entertaining comic strip based on the Lost Saga characters that is at least five panels long and includes speech bubbles, they can win Nexon Cash (NX) and have their entry posted to the Lost Saga Facebook page for the thousands of fans to appreciate.

Even players that want to get in on the brawling action and nothing more have a chance to win gifts to use in-game; users that log in every day will be rewarded with the very best gifts to propel them on their way to epic victory.

“The Open Beta is a significant stage for us to service a flawless game and we’re happy to give something back to those that want to get so involved,” says Minkyu Kim, Product Manager at Nexon Europe. “With the chance to get creative and win big, as well as play characters that so many are familiar with from classic titles like King of Fighters and BlazBlue, I’m confident that everyone can benefit from the run-up, making an awesome brawler experience!”

Developed by I.O. Entertainment and licensed by WeMade Entertainment,  Lost Saga is an online multiplayer brawler game like no other, incorporating over 100 well-loved characters from across time and space, 20 maps, and a wide variety of game modes.

The Open Beta will begin on 24^th April and it will be followed by the official launch. Lost Saga will be available in 6 languages: English, German, French, Italian, Polish, and Turkish.

Yulgang Online has entered Open Beta with the release of the Emerald Server, and thousands of players have started their journey through the rich anime-inspired world, racing to be the first to establish their House and claim a side in the battle between Chaos and Order. Drawing on the lore and design of a legendary Korean manga comic that’s been running for 25 years; Yulgang Online offers players the chance to step into a rich anime world and fight for its future. Players wishing to play Yulgang Online can register and play for free on http://yulgang.usergames.com.