Video games are set to become Great Britain's number one form of mass entertainment this year, according to a report from Verdict Research. The organisation claims gaming could be worth 4.64 billion GBP in 2008.

The research predicts that will be up more than 1.7 billion GBP over 2007's numbers, while and video sales will lag on 4.46 billion GBP for the year.

"Games represent a relatively cheap, but also exciting and innovative pastime," enthused Matthew Piner, the author of the new report.

"As more people save money by staying in, a video game, although it may cost three of four times as much as a DVD or CD, offers much more longevity and hence better value for money."

Are you feeling the gaming boom, players?

By Luke Guttridge