Thinking about a career in creating videos games?

Family and friends telling you it’s a dumb idea? Fight back with facts!

The Entertainment Software Association of Canada (ESAC) has just recently released its 2011 edition of Essential Facts About the Canadian Computer Game and Video Game Industry. This 20 page booklet breaks down some of the numbers behind industry growth, the number of companies operating in Canada, where these companies are located, who’s playing games, and Canada’s success with the industry. Plus it’s got that official-looking government style for added authority.

Hit the jump to find out more about the ESAC’s report.

Oh, and if you really want to start digging ESAC has been producing these brochures since 2005. Mom and Dad have no chance against this onslaught of information! Those classes at Vancouver Film School will be yours!

ESAC’s membership includes companies like EA, Ubisoft, Sony, Disney Interactive Studios and Microsoft Canada, and is open to companies in Canada that publish, develop or distribute video games.

A few ESAC provided facts to wet your appetite:

• Canada has the 3^rd largest video game industry in the world
• The average age of a Canadian gamer is 33
• The Canadian video game industry is estimated to contribute $1.7 billion to Canada’s economy.
• The Canadian video game industry grew by 11% in 2011
• The Canadian video game industry is projected to grow by 17% per year for the next two years
• There are 348 video game companies in Canada
• There are currently approximately 16,000 people employed in the video game industry in Canada
• 59% of Canadians are gamers
• 62% of males and 38% of females play video games