Just how typical a social gamer are you? We got the stats!

Do you think that you're unique among social gamers? Or maybe you think you're just one of the crowd? New stats on just who is playing games like Farmville and Mafia Wars, not to mention where and how, help shed some light on just where you stand.

Based on a general overview of the industry from Inside Network's Justin Smith, it's clear that there's a virtual gold rush happening as companies of all stripes -- big game publishers to indie game makers -- work to make a name for themselves on Facebook. In the meantime, devoted players worldwide are shelling out billions to buy virtual items in these games. Yes, you read that right -- we're spending billions on games like FarmVille.

For a more detailed look at how fast this space is growing and changing, here are a few fun facts about social gaming on Facebook and otherwise.

- Facebook has 400 million users, 70% of them do not live in the US

- Facebook has a 'mature' audience -- ages 25 and up

- Twitter has not been (and probably won't be) popular outlet for social games

- Players have been using Facebook games as a way to bond with families because it's cheaper than other forms of entertainment, i.e. going to the movies

- Players have cut down on using the offers to get free cash

- Most people buy virtual goods using PayPal instead of credit cards

- Virtual item e.g. in-game items that cost real-life cash, sales in Asia reached $7 billion in 2009

- Virtual item sales in the West will reach roughly $1 billion this year


How much money have you spend on items for your games so far this year?