One of the fastest growing sub-genres of computer entertainment “games.” A game is typically a structured, predetermined form of interactive play, often undertaken for fun or entertainment, and sometimes used, occasionally, as an educational resource. Games are different from work, which can be carried out merely for compensation, and from literature, that is more often a pure expression of philosophical or aesthetic elements. In most cases, games are designed with the end result in mind, rather than to cause an employee to learn a particular skill, or to think analytically about a specific problem. Games are generally less structured than work (although there are some exceptions), and the rules tend to change frequently, so that a new “game” for a new employee to learn may include a different set of rules than a “work” game.

The most popular sub-genres of computer and video games are simulation games, which attempt to provide the equivalent of physical exercise by simulating the actions of playing a variety of different matches, from tennis to bowling to airsoft. There are numerous different types of board games that also simulate various types of physical activity, from the simple game of Scrabble to the complex and engaging simulation of chess. In addition, there are hundreds of theme-based board games and word games that require players to build and plan strategies, perhaps even to utilize a certain element of luck, such as falling blocks on a game of Scrabble.

Video games generally fall into one of several main categories, each of which is designed to entertain rather than to teach. Action and adventure games involve moving toward a target, performing stunts, solving puzzles, fighting enemies, or tracking a character through a series of increasingly complicated scenes, all of which require the player to apply a significant amount of critical thinking and skill in order to succeed. Massively multiplayer online role playing games (MMORPGs) are designed to provide a persistent environment in which players engage in massive virtual worlds that are constantly changing and evolving based upon their interactions with other players. These games often require the use of a variety of different genres, including combat, racing, crafting, PvE, and even gambling, although it is possible to play any number of these different types of games using a single gaming platform.

Role-playing video game mechanics are most often implemented in narrative format. The objective of the game generally revolves around the exploration and experience of a specific fictional universe, in order to gather various types of rewards and experience levels. Typically, players are given complete freedom to choose their own path in pursuing their goals, although there are often predetermined quests and locations that must be pursued in order to advance the plot. Unlike action and adventure games, where the primary focus is on combat, role-playing titles often require players to perform a wide range of tasks in order to advance the story and find the character they are seeking to vanquish. Some examples of this type of game include Vampire Hunter: The Masquerade, Secret of Solstise, and the Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening.

As you can see, there are a plethora of different game mechanics available to players in today’s market. Many of the more popular genres, including action and adventure, have evolved into a wildly successful series of games, while many others have only seen small niche audiences. It is interesting to note the number of genres that are currently experiencing significant growth in terms of sales and audiences. It is also interesting to see the trends emerging in which certain types of gameplay mechanics are becoming more mainstream and accepted by players.

For instance, action-adventure games are no longer necessarily considered to be too “hard” or “grindy.” In fact, the genre has come so far in terms of both mechanics and overall definition that many people consider action-adventures to be some of the most fun titles available in the market today. Action-adventures offer the player an opportunity to engage in highly interactive and narrative-driven gameplay. By providing a high level of freedom and interaction, action-adventures are considered to be some of the most pure game genres on the market today.