Aren’t video games supposed to be escapism? (Pic: Ubisoft)

New data shows that the coronavirus-induced lockdown has ironically made pandemic-related games more popular.

We’ve already known for a while that gaming has become more popular than ever due to the coronavirus keeping everybody stuck indoors.

Previously, we recommended that, in this time of crisis, you avoid playing any games involving zombies, viruses, or the struggle to survive. But it seems the opposite has happened instead.

According to data compiled by digital marketplace G2A, demand for survival-related games has shot up by 75% in the first few months of 2020.


Not only that, but interest in games that involve global epidemics has apparently gone up by over 200%. Simulation game Plague Inc’s newfound popularity was already reported back in January, but this has also extended to the likes of State Of Decay and The Division 2.



Sports games, such as the FIFA and NBA series, have exploded in popularity too, with it being reported that there has been a 2,332% increase in searches of those games.

Can’t play football? Just play football instead … Wait… (Pic: EA)

This isn’t too surprising as practically every major sport has had to be cancelled, so fans are being forced to turn to the next best thing. Some events are event set to be replicated using video games, such as the Premier League.

G2A has shared the most searched for games and, though it contains none of the previously mentioned titles, the list isn’t surprising, with the usual suspects like Fortnite and Minecraft leading the charge. In fact, G2A states that Minecraft has seen a 24% increase in demand.

The full list is as follows:

Fortnite (Battle Royale)

Minecraft (survival sandbox)

Call Of Duty: Modern Warfare (FPS)

GTA V (sandbox)

Ark: Survival Evolved (survival sandbox)

Rust (survival sandbox)

Sims 4 (simulator)

‘During these challenging times, it’s no surprise that people are looking for opportunities to stay connected and entertained,’ said Bartosz Skwarczek, CEO and co-founder of G2A.

‘Gaming allows people to step away from the realities for a moment, connect with online communities and find room for joy, even in the current situation.’

Which games have you fallen back on to entertain yourself with?

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