The Penguin Economist Special reports delve into the most pressing economic issues of the day: from national and global economies, to the impact of trade, industry and jobs. Written to be read on a long commute or in your lunch hour - be better informed in under an hour.In the US, the average age of a gamer is 37 and 42% are female. Last year the industry earned $56billion worldwide. Tim Cross analyses the proliferation of the video games in this Economist special report, and how its successes are set to grow. Sections in the report include:All the world's a gameAs you like itThe business of gaming: Thinking out of the boxPaying for pixels E-sports: Gentlemen, start your computersViolence and addiction: No killer appAlternative uses: The play's the thingThe importance of fun: Homo ludens