Average Video Game Completion Time Soars to 66 Hours in 2024

Have you ever wondered how long it really takes to finish your favorite video game? A recent study by the gaming site Solitaired reveals a fascinating trend: the average time to beat a computer game has surged dramatically in just two years. From 56.2 hours in 2023, the average completion time jumped to 66.2 hours in 2024 — a 61% increase that marks the highest average in the past decade.

What’s driving this rise? The study highlights that certain genres, especially turn-based strategy games like Civilization V and Baldur’s Gate 3, alongside roleplaying and simulation games, demand the most time investment. For example, Animal Crossing: New Leaf tops the chart as the longest game to beat, requiring an astonishing 469 hours to complete.

Interestingly, some games aren’t about rushing to the finish line. CNET’s David Lumb points out that titles like Animal Crossing and Stardew Valley focus on the experience rather than the endgame. Players often enjoy performing repetitive, relaxing tasks in charming settings, building relationships, and exploring, which extends playtime without the pressure to 'win.'

Difficulty also plays a role in longer game times. Challenging titles like Elden Ring and Dark Souls intentionally embrace tough gameplay as part of their allure, encouraging players to invest more time mastering the experience.

The study also notes platform differences: Nintendo DS, Xbox Series consoles, and PlayStation 5 host the longest average game durations. Despite the extended playtimes, player satisfaction remains high, with most of the top 20 longest games maintaining average ratings above 80%.

This trend toward longer, more immersive games reflects evolving player preferences for depth and engagement over quick wins. For developers, it’s a call to balance challenge, narrative richness, and player freedom to create experiences that captivate for hours on end.

Why Longer Games Matter for Developers and Players

Longer games offer developers opportunities to deepen storytelling, expand worlds, and build complex mechanics that keep players engaged. However, they also require careful design to avoid player fatigue. Understanding how players interact with lengthy content can inform better pacing, reward systems, and community features.

For players, longer games mean more value and richer experiences. Whether it’s the relaxing charm of Animal Crossing or the punishing challenge of Dark Souls, these games offer something beyond just a finish line—they create worlds to live in and stories to savor.

As the gaming landscape evolves, the rise in game completion times highlights a shift toward immersive, player-driven experiences that reward time and dedication. It’s a trend that developers and players alike should watch closely.