A new generation of French seniors is discovering the joy of video games, with e-bowling emerging as their competitive sport of choice.
While studies may warn of the dangers of screens for young people, digital engagement later in life appears to be rather beneficial.
Last week, Paris hosted a national e-bowling final for competitors aged 65 and older, highlighting the strength and drive of senior players.
Organised by French organisation Silver Geek during Paris Games Week, the event aimed to improve seniors’ health and well-being while bridging the digital divide.
The tournament, which has gained popularity among the elderly, culminated in a showdown featuring four finalists.
Mental boost
Among the competitors was 90-year-old Sarah – the doyenne of the event – and 86-year-old Armande Guérin, a semi-finalist.
"It keeps our minds occupied and we get a taste for it. It's better than going home and just sitting on the couch," Armande told RFI.
She and her husband were introduced to e-sports by even coordinators at the canteen where they have lunch in Nantes, western France.
The couple has been e-bowling for three years. They practice twice a week on a console, for about an hour each time, in their living room. They also play with other participants.
"It allows us to meet people and not be alone," says Armande.
As the e-bowling community grows, events like the "Trophée des Seniors" show the benefits of staying active.
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“It helps with posture, balance and brings people together,” said Lise, a coordinator at Domitys Coeur de Loire, a retirement residence in Tours.
The activity boosts self-confidence for many seniors, who are often surprised by their own abilities.
At 81, 77, and 90 years old, several participants said they never thought they’d be able to play video games but now find it both entertaining and mentally stimulating.
Lise noted that while younger generations grew up with digital technology, older players embrace it as a fresh way to stay engaged: “It stimulates them, and they really enjoy it.”
Unlike some younger players who struggle with screen time, these seniors find themselves “addicted to competition”.
In an intergenerational twist, e-bowling pairs seniors with young coaches.
“We teach them to play [on the Nintendo Switch], to position themselves, understand the game, and connect with an audience,” said Faustine, a 19-year-old coach in civic service with Unis-Cité in Toulon.
“It’s about sharing, laughing and having an amazing time.”
A 2024 survey by the French Leisure Software Publishers Association (Sell) shows that 43 percent of French seniors now play video games – around 4.7 million people, or 12 percent of all gamers.
Their average age is 69, and they spend nearly five hours a week playing.
