#Japan #Tokyo #Gaming #Parenting #Lighthouse Studio

Overview of the Study

Lighthouse Studio, a subsidiary of CARTA HOLDINGS and operator of the gaming media site "Kamigame Gakuryo," conducted a survey targeting game users who are parents. The research, carried out from December 15 to December 15, 2025, aimed to understand the reality of in-game spending among families. With 300 respondents, the results offer valuable insights into how parenthood influences gaming expenditures.

Key Findings

The findings revealed that 57% of respondents reported an average monthly spending of "0 yen" on games. Surprisingly, 72.3% stated that their spending had not changed after having children, indicating that many parents maintain their previous gaming habits without significantly increasing or decreasing their expenditures.

Survey Details

• - Survey Date: December 15, 2025
• - Target Group: Parents who are game users
• - Method: Online questionnaire
• - Number of Respondents: 300

Summary of Results

• - 57.0% reported an average monthly spending of "0 yen"
• - 72.3% indicated their spending remained "unchanged" after becoming parents
• - The main factors influencing spending changes were "changes in disposable income and available time"
• - Most respondents (48.0%) spent the same amount on games, even if playing the same games as their children
• - 25.7% revealed that they were most likely to spend during limited-time events or collaborations
• - A majority of participants (51.6%) felt no guilt or little guilt about their gaming expenditures
• - When asked about future gaming expenditures in relation to their children, 33.0% preferred to set guidelines for allowances.

Insights Based on Children's Age

Among the respondents, those with children aged 15 and older represented the largest group at 53.0%. Additionally, 15.7% had preschool-aged children (0-5 years), showing a diverse range of parenting experiences.

When examining in-game spending habits based on the age of their children, the majority (over 68.6%) with teenagers cited they did not spend any money on games, compared to 40-46% for families with younger kids up to middle school age.

Stability of Gaming Expenditures

The study also underlined the stability of gaming expenditures after childbirth. A significant 72.3% reported their spending habits did not change post-children, suggesting that having kids does not significantly alter spending habits. The minority reported increases or decreases in spending.

Causes for Changes in Spending

When asked about the reasons for any changes in their gaming habits, respondents cited fluctuations in disposable income (19.7%) and a reduced amount of playtime due to parenting and work commitments (18.7%). Notably, almost half (45.0%) indicated they did not spend any money on games at all, showcasing a significant portion of parents enjoying games without financial commitment.

Playing Games Together

Interestingly, 30.7% of respondents indicated that they do not play the same games as their children. However, 26.3% confirmed they do play the same games but do not adjust their spending accordingly. This indicates that engaging with children in shared gaming experiences does not necessarily lead to increased financial outlay.

Maximizing Enjoyment through Events

When parents do decide to spend, it is most often driven by events. The most common triggers for spending included game events or collaborations (25.7%) and personal rewards (24.7%).

Perceptions About Spending

Regarding feelings of guilt connected with game spending, 51.6% reported that they feel little to no guilt about their expenditures, reflecting a divided perspective among players, as almost half admitted to experiencing guilt occasionally.

Future Spending Paradigms

When asked how they would approach their children's potential future gaming expenditures, 33.0% favored having rules in place for allowable spending, while around 30.3% wanted to limit this to their child's allowance. Only 6.7% were inclined to grant unrestricted access for spending, illustrating a cautious approach among parents.

Benefits Gained from Spending

The primary benefit derived from their expenditures, according to 36.7%, was the sense of achievement and superiority in gaming, while 17.3% mentioned stress relief provided by gaming. Clearly, many perceive in-game spending as a means to enhance time efficiency and mental satisfaction.

Maintaining Current Spending Levels

Looking ahead to future gaming expenditures, 41.7% expressed the desire to maintain their current spending habits. Meanwhile, 20.3% voiced intentions to either reduce or halt their spending, indicative of a conscious adjustment in accordance with their life stages and family finances.

Balancing Safety with Enjoyment

When it comes to gaming with their children, parents are generally open to spending when it enhances playability or safety, such as reducing wait times or accessing additional content (20.3% for free version extensions). However, 33.7% prioritized gaming experiences strictly within free limits, reaffirming a significant focus on zero-cost enjoyment.

About Lighthouse Studio

Lighthouse Studio runs multiple digital platforms, including the popular gaming strategy website "Kamigame Gakuryo," and eCommerce media "Kaubel." With a commitment to solving user and business challenges, Lighthouse Studio aims to become a beacon for its clients.

Company Overview

• - Company Name: Lighthouse Studio
• - Representatives: Tomoyuki Kato, Naoki Kishida
• - Headquarters: 36F Toranomon Hills Station Tower, 2-6-1 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo
• - Established: November 1, 2017
• - Business: Media operations for game information, influencer marketing, and related business ventures
• - Major Shareholder: CARTA HOLDINGS
• - Website: Lighthouse Studio
• - Inquiries for Media: CARTA HOLDINGS Contact
• - Business Inquiries: Lighthouse Studio Contact