What are Computer Games and What Types Are There?

Are you ready to explore the world of computer games? Computer games are electronic games that are played on a computer or a mobile device. They are designed to provide entertainment and can be played by people of all ages. From classic arcade games to complex role-playing games, there is a vast array of computer games available to choose from. In this article, we will take a closer look at what computer games are and the different types that exist. So, let’s get started and discover the exciting world of computer games!

What are Computer Games?

Computer games are digital entertainment products designed to be played on a personal computer or a video game console. They have been a part of our lives for over four decades, since the first computer games were developed in the 1970s. The history of computer games can be divided into four main eras: early computer games, arcade games, home console games, and personal computer games.

History of Computer Games

• Early computer games
  Early computer games were simple programs that could be played on mainframe computers in the 1960s. These games were mostly text-based and included simple games like Hunt the Wumpus and Star Trek. The graphics were simple and the games were played on a terminal screen.
• Arcade games
  In the 1970s, arcade games became popular. These games were played in video arcades and featured simple graphics and simple gameplay. The most popular arcade games included Space Invaders, Pac-Man, and Asteroids.
• Home console games
  In the 1980s, home console games became popular. These games were played on dedicated gaming consoles like the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and the Sega Genesis. The most popular home console games included Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Sonic the Hedgehog.
• Personal computer games
  Personal computer games became popular in the 1990s with the advent of more powerful personal computers. These games were played on PCs and included games like Doom, Quake, and Diablo. The graphics were more advanced and the games were more complex.

In summary, computer games have a rich history dating back to the 1960s, with the development of simple text-based games. Over the years, computer games have evolved to include more complex graphics, gameplay, and genres, including role-playing games, first-person shooters, strategy games, sports games, and simulation games.

Types of Computer Games

Role-playing Games (RPGs)

Role-playing games (RPGs) are a type of computer game that allows players to assume the role of a character in a fictional setting. RPGs are typically known for their strong narratives, complex characters, and engaging worlds.

MMORPGs

MMORPGs, or massively multiplayer online role-playing games, are a subgenre of RPGs that are played online with a large number of players. MMORPGs typically feature persistent game worlds that continue to exist even when the player is offline. Some popular MMORPGs include World of Warcraft, Final Fantasy XIV, and Guild Wars 2.

Single-player RPGs

Single-player RPGs, on the other hand, are played by a single player and have a predetermined storyline. These games often feature a character creation system, allowing players to customize their character’s appearance and abilities. Some popular single-player RPGs include The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, Fallout 4, and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt.

In RPGs, players typically have the ability to interact with other characters in the game world, complete quests, and gain experience points to level up their characters. The game world is often open-ended, allowing players to explore and discover new areas and content. RPGs are known for their immersive storytelling and engaging characters, making them a popular choice among gamers.

First-person Shooters (FPS)

Multiplayer FPS

• Call of Duty
• Battlefield
• Halo

Single-player FPS

• Doom
• Half-Life
• Wolfenstein

First-person shooters (FPS) are a popular genre of computer games that are played from a first-person perspective. The player typically controls a character who is seen from a first-person viewpoint and must navigate through a three-dimensional environment while shooting enemies and completing objectives.

Multiplayer FPS games are designed for multiple players to compete against each other online. Some of the most popular multiplayer FPS games include Call of Duty, Battlefield, and Halo. These games often feature a variety of game modes, such as team deathmatch, capture the flag, and domination, and require players to work together and strategize in order to emerge victorious.

Single-player FPS games, on the other hand, are designed for a single player to complete the game on their own. These games often have a strong narrative element and feature a set of levels or missions that the player must complete in order to progress through the game. Some popular single-player FPS games include Doom, Half-Life, and Wolfenstein. These games often have a more complex storyline and require the player to use a variety of weapons and tactics to overcome challenges and defeat enemies.

In summary, FPS games are a type of computer game that are played from a first-person perspective and often involve shooting enemies and completing objectives. Multiplayer FPS games are designed for multiple players to compete against each other online, while single-player FPS games are designed for a single player to complete the game on their own. Some popular FPS games include Call of Duty, Battlefield, Halo, Doom, Half-Life, and Wolfenstein.

Strategy Games

Real-time strategy (RTS)

• StarCraft
  • Released in 1998 by Blizzard Entertainment
  • Set in the universe of the Warcraft series
  • Players control armies of units and structures
  • Focuses on resource management, base building, and strategic decision making
• Warcraft III
  • Released in 2002 by Blizzard Entertainment
  • Set in the Warcraft universe
  • Features customizable heroes with unique abilities
  • Emphasizes both resource management and unit micromanagement
• Age of Empires
  • Released in 1997 by Ensemble Studios
  • Spans from the ancient Egyptians to the Middle Ages
  • Includes various civilizations with unique units and technologies
  • Requires players to gather resources, build structures, and research technologies to advance their civilization

Turn-based strategy (TBS)

• Civilization
  • Released in 1991 by MicroProse
  • Allows players to lead a civilization from prehistory to the future
  • Focuses on economic, technological, and military development
  • Features diplomacy and espionage to interact with other civilizations
• XCOM
  • Released in 1994 by Mythic Entertainment
  • Players manage a paranormal investigation and defense organization
  • Involves tactical combat and resource management
  • Includes research and development for new technologies and weapons
• Total War
  • Released in 2000 by Creative Assembly
  • Combines turn-based strategy with real-time tactics
  • Players manage armies, economies, and diplomacy
  • Features historical and fictional battles with various factions

Sports Games

Sports games are a popular genre of computer games that simulate real-life sports such as football, basketball, baseball, and others. These games are designed to provide players with an immersive experience of playing their favorite sports, competing against other players or the computer, and managing teams.

Console sports games

Console sports games are designed for gaming consoles such as PlayStation and Xbox. These games are developed by major gaming companies and have a large following among sports enthusiasts. Some of the most popular console sports games include:

• FIFA: FIFA is a football (soccer) game that is widely popular around the world. It allows players to play as their favorite football teams and compete against other players online. The game features realistic graphics and gameplay, making it a popular choice among sports gamers.
• NBA 2K: NBA 2K is a basketball game that simulates the National Basketball Association (NBA). It allows players to play as their favorite NBA teams and compete against other players online. The game features realistic graphics and gameplay, as well as a career mode where players can create their own basketball player and rise through the ranks.
• Madden NFL: Madden NFL is a football game that simulates the National Football League (NFL). It allows players to play as their favorite NFL teams and compete against other players online. The game features realistic graphics and gameplay, as well as a career mode where players can create their own football player and rise through the ranks.

PC sports games

PC sports games are designed for personal computers and are often more complex than console sports games. These games are developed by a variety of companies and offer a range of sports and gameplay options. Some of the most popular PC sports games include:

• Steam Sports: Steam Sports is a collection of sports games available on the Steam platform. It includes a variety of sports games such as football, basketball, and racing games. The games are designed to be played on personal computers and offer a range of gameplay options.
• EA Sports: EA Sports is a major gaming company that specializes in sports games. Its games include FIFA, NBA 2K, and Madden NFL, as well as other sports games such as NHL and UFC. EA Sports games are designed for personal computers and offer a range of gameplay options.
• Sports Interactive: Sports Interactive is a gaming company that specializes in sports management games. Its games include Football Manager, which allows players to manage their favorite football team and compete against other players online. Sports Interactive games are designed for personal computers and offer a range of gameplay options.

Simulation Games

Simulation games are a type of computer game that allow players to simulate real-world scenarios. These games are designed to mimic real-life experiences, and they can range from city-building games to life simulation games.

City-building games

City-building games are a subgenre of simulation games that focus on building and managing a virtual city. Players are tasked with creating and maintaining a thriving metropolis, complete with residential areas, commercial districts, and industrial zones. Some popular city-building games include:

• Minecraft: Minecraft is a popular sandbox game that allows players to build and explore a blocky 3D world. The game has a creative mode where players can build structures and landscapes, and a survival mode where players must gather resources and defend against monsters.
• Cities: Skylines: Cities: Skylines is a city-building game that focuses on creating and managing a functional city. Players must plan and design their city, manage traffic and public transportation, and provide essential services like water and electricity.
• SimCity: SimCity is a classic city-building game that challenges players to create and manage a virtual city. Players must balance economic, environmental, and social factors to create a thriving metropolis.

Life simulation games

Life simulation games are another subgenre of simulation games that focus on simulating the daily life of a character. These games allow players to experience life in different roles, such as a virtual person or an animal. Some popular life simulation games include:

• The Sims: The Sims is a popular life simulation game that allows players to create and control virtual characters. Players can design their characters’ appearance, personality, and home, and interact with other characters in the game world.
• Animal Crossing: Animal Crossing is a life simulation game that focuses on living in a virtual world as an animal. Players can build and decorate their own home, interact with other animals in the game world, and participate in various activities like fishing and gardening.
• Harvest Moon: Harvest Moon is a life simulation game that focuses on farming and rural life. Players must manage a farm, raise animals, and interact with villagers in a quaint rural setting.

Other Types of Computer Games

In addition to the previously mentioned genres, there are several other types of computer games that cater to a wide range of interests and preferences.

Sports games

Sports games are designed to simulate real-life sports, allowing players to experience the thrill of competition and the excitement of victory. These games often feature popular sports such as football, basketball, soccer, and golf, and allow players to control virtual teams or athletes. Examples of popular sports games include the FIFA series, NBA 2K series, and The Golf Club series.

Strategy games

Strategy games are focused on planning and decision-making, requiring players to think critically and strategically to achieve objectives. These games often involve resource management, troop movement, and tactical decisions, and can be set in various historical periods or fictional universes. Examples of popular strategy games include the Civilization series, Age of Empires series, and Stellaris.

Simulation games

Simulation games aim to replicate real-life situations, allowing players to experience different environments and activities. These games can range from city-building simulations like Cities: Skylines to life simulations like The Sims, and can also include flight simulations, train simulations, and more.

Role-playing games (RPGs)

RPGs are games that allow players to assume the role of a character and interact with a virtual world. These games often feature customizable characters, complex storylines, and various skills and abilities to develop. Examples of popular RPGs include the Elder Scrolls series, the Fallout series, and the Mass Effect series.

First-person shooter (FPS) games

FPS games are focused on shooting and combat, with players taking on the role of a first-person perspective. These games often involve intense action and multiplayer modes, with players competing against each other or cooperating to complete objectives. Examples of popular FPS games include the Call of Duty series, the Battlefield series, and the Halo series.

Racing games

Racing games are designed to simulate various types of racing, including cars, motorcycles, boats, and more. These games often feature realistic physics and tracks, as well as different game modes such as time trials, races, and stunt challenges. Examples of popular racing games include the Need for Speed series, the Forza series, and the Gran Turismo series.

These are just a few examples of the diverse range of computer game genres available, each offering unique experiences and catering to different interests and preferences.

FAQs

1. What are computer games?

Computer games are interactive programs or software designed for entertainment purposes, typically played on a personal computer or gaming console. They often involve challenges, goals, and rules that players must follow to progress through the game.

2. What are the different types of computer games?

There are many different types of computer games, including:
* Action games: focus on physical challenges and combat, such as shooting or fighting games.
* Adventure games: involve exploration, puzzle-solving, and storytelling.
* Role-playing games (RPGs): allow players to create and control characters in a fictional world, often with elements of fantasy or science fiction.
* Strategy games: require players to make tactical decisions and manage resources to achieve a goal, such as conquering territory or defeating opponents.
* Simulation games: mimic real-world activities, such as flying planes or managing a city.
* Sports games: simulate real-world sports, such as football or basketball.
* Puzzle games: challenge players to solve increasingly difficult problems or obstacles.
* Card and board games: digital adaptations of traditional games, such as chess or monopoly.

3. What are some popular computer game franchises?

Some popular computer game franchises include:
* Assassin’s Creed
* The Elder Scrolls
* Fallout
* Grand Theft Auto
* Mario
* The Sims
* Warcraft

4. Are computer games suitable for all ages?

Computer games are typically rated according to their age appropriateness, with different age ratings indicating the level of violence, mature themes, or language. However, parents should exercise caution and use their own discretion when selecting games for their children, as some games may contain content that is not suitable for all ages.

5. Can computer games be educational?

Yes, computer games can be educational. Many games are designed to teach specific skills or concepts, such as math, history, or language. Educational games can be fun and engaging for children and adults alike, and can help reinforce learning in a non-traditional way.

Video Game Genres: Everything You Need to Know