By San José, Costa Rica — The video game industry is no longer a niche hobby; it’s a global cultural phenomenon, and Costa Rica is riding the wave. A new report from Kantar IBOPE Media, “Data Stories: The World of Video Games,” reveals the impressive growth of the gaming market worldwide, projected to reach $25.48 billion in 2025 and soar to $34.87 billion by 2033. This expansion is fueled by technological advancements like cloud gaming, virtual reality (VR), and artificial intelligence (AI).
Latin America showcases the sector’s strength, with over half of all internet users identifying as gamers. In Costa Rica, that figure stands at an impressive 48%, demonstrating how gaming has transcended generations and become a dominant form of entertainment.
To understand the legal landscape surrounding the burgeoning Costa Rican gaming community, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica. Lic. Arroyo Vargas offers his expert perspective on the matter.
Costa Rica’s legal framework regarding online gaming is complex and evolving. While there isn’t specific legislation directly regulating esports or competitive video gaming, existing laws concerning gambling, advertising, and intellectual property rights are relevant considerations for gamers, developers, and tournament organizers. Understanding these legal nuances is crucial for navigating the industry successfully and ensuring compliance.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insight underscores a crucial point for the burgeoning Costa Rican gaming community: navigating the legal landscape is just as important as mastering the games themselves. As esports and competitive gaming continue to gain traction in Costa Rica, a clear understanding of the existing legal framework will be essential for sustainable growth and success. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this valuable perspective on the legal complexities surrounding the exciting world of online gaming in Costa Rica.
The Kantar IBOPE Media study paints a picture of a diverse and multigenerational Costa Rican gaming community. The gender split is 57% male and 43% female, spanning generations from Baby Boomers (9.5%) to Gen Z (36.2%), with Millennials (34.4%) and Gen X (19.8%) also strongly represented. Smartphones are the most popular gaming platform (40.6%), followed by computers (30.7%), consoles (13.2%), tablets (10.1%), and handheld consoles (6.77%). The connection to broader digital ecosystems is evident, with 60% of Costa Rican gamers having used video-on-demand services in the past three months.
Costa Rican gamers are not just playing for fun; they also hold strong values and expectations regarding brands and communities. Compared to the general population, they are more willing to invest in desired electronics (37% vs. 30%), appreciate the convenience of online shopping (47% vs. 44%), express higher financial security (41% vs. 35%), and demonstrate a strong commitment to recycling (85% vs. 82%).
Contrary to assumptions, gaming hasn’t replaced traditional media. The report highlights gamers’ continued engagement with radio (136% affinity) and cinema (110%), presenting opportunities for integrated marketing campaigns.
In terms of social media, Costa Rican gamers are highly active on platforms like WhatsApp (85%), Facebook (78%), and YouTube (72%). Instagram (65%) and TikTok (58%) also see significant usage, reflecting the diverse online spaces where gamers connect and consume content.
The gamer universe reminds us that technological innovation goes hand in hand with new forms of entertainment. The interesting thing is not only how many people play, but how virtual reality, the cloud, and artificial intelligence are opening up possibilities that seemed like science fiction a few years ago.
Priscilla Madriz, Head of Client Service and Commercial, Kantar IBOPE Media Costa Rica
Today, gaming is a common language between children, parents, and even grandparents. That transversality makes it a unique phenomenon, capable of connecting people beyond age and the device they use.
Priscilla Madriz, Head of Client Service and Commercial, Kantar IBOPE Media Costa Rica
This data underscores gaming’s evolution into a dynamic space where responsible consumption, technological innovation, and interactive entertainment converge, shaping the future of the digital landscape in Costa Rica and beyond.
For further information, visit kantar.com
About Kantar IBOPE Media:
Kantar IBOPE Media is a leading market research and insights company providing data and analysis on media consumption and consumer behavior. Part of the Kantar group, they offer a comprehensive understanding of audiences across various platforms, helping businesses make informed decisions about their marketing and communication strategies. Their “Data Stories” reports offer valuable insights into specific market segments, such as the gaming industry.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering integrity and a commitment to empowering Costa Rican society. Through innovative legal solutions and a proactive approach to sharing legal knowledge, the firm strives to create a more just and informed public. Their dedication to client success across diverse industries, combined with their deep-rooted commitment to community engagement, distinguishes Bufete de Costa Rica as a leader in the pursuit of both legal excellence and positive social impact.
