Online Video Games Genres
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Video games used to be relatively clear-cut. But, with advances in technology and more and more developers experimenting with different styles, they have evolved. In this post, we look at the top genres that make up today’s video-gaming landscape.
1. Survival and Horror
The horror and survival video game genres have a lot of overlap, so much so that they led to the creation of a new subgenre called survival horror. In survival games, the mechanics revolve around resource management, often including salvage systems and crafting to keep a character alive. When it comes to horror, nearly anything with jump scares, a post-apocalyptic storyline, or zombies can be considered horror. There are also psychological titles that employ tension to immerse you in the game. Popular examples in this category include:
- Resident Evil(survival-horror)
- Minecraft
- Don’t Starve
- The Long Dark
2. Sandbox
A sandbox game will feature non-linear gameplay, open environments, and player choice. Here, characters have less defined narrative pathways and goals to pursue. Rather than “kill the dragon and save the princess,” these games often include many different tasks that must be accomplished in different ways. Sandbox games are very immersive and promote experimentation with probably unfamiliar mechanics. Popular examples include:
- The Sims
- Grand Theft Auto
- Minecraft
3. Shooter (FPS and TPS)
Shooter games are divided into two primary subgenres: first-person shooter (FPS) and third-person shooter (TPS). Because many contemporary games in the larger genre allow players to toggle between the two viewpoints, there can be a lot of overlap. The difference, of course, is perspective. FPS games show you what your in-game character is seeing from a typical human viewpoint. Examples include DOOM and Call of Duty. In contrast, TPS games like Tom Clancy’s The Division series show you the entire character plus their full surrounding.
4. Casino Games
The casino genre is the online version of real-life physical casinos. Players get to play different variants of popular casinos online. Generally, there are three categories of casino games: table games, random number games, and gaming machines. Table casino games simulate well-known games like craps, blackjack, and baccarat and usually involve one or more players playing against the house. Random number games are typically one-player and include games like bingo and Keno. Similarly, gaming machines like pachinko and slot machines only require a single player. Real money slots are the most popular casino game, thanks to their vivid graphics, ease of play, and unpredictable nature. Millions of fans flock to the Best US Casino slots to enjoy these fun, colorful games, and so can you.
5. Real-Time Strategy (RTS)
Dune II is the archetypal Real-Time Strategy title. In this game, AI and human players create and control different factions that compete against each other in real time, hence the name. Like other RTS games, it includes a top-down view and map and resource management. Other RTS examples include Warcraft and Age of Empires.
6. Role-Playing Games (RPG, ARPG, etc.)
Role-playing games are simple in their premise – you take control of or create a character that you can then level up using experience points. Although they are a gaming cornerstone, RPGs have evolved into so many subgenres that no single game can represent the entire genre. Examples include
- The Witcher 3 (ARPG)
- Skyrim
- Fallout 4
7. Sports
Sports video games contain detailed recreations of real-life professional sports like racing, football, and basketball. Examples include Madden NFL, NBA 2K, and Forza.
8. Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA)
These games share many similarities with RTS games. However, in MOBA games, you can only control one character rather than a faction. MOBA titles also emphasize team play and multiplayer features. Top examples include Dota 2, League of Legends, and Smite.
9. Action-Adventure
Action-adventure is one of the most recognizable hybrid genres. These games focus on combat and plot through tight gameplay mechanics and story involvement. Consequently, many games can be grouped under this genre. There is some divide between adventure and action, which is usually based on how a game balances simulated combat and story. One of the most popular action-adventure games is the 2019 Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order. Other examples include:
- Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
- Legend of Zelda
- Assassin’s Creed
10. Party Games and Puzzlers
Party games and puzzlers focus on game mechanics and are often based on a traditional tabletop game. Party games take it a step further and include multiplayer features. Also called puzzle games, puzzlers can be simple games or immersive experiences with extensive environments. Common examples of these genres include Portal 2 and The Talos Principle, both puzzlers, and Jackbox Party Pack, a party game.
11. Platformer
Platformer games maintain a strong connection to early 2D titles. They typically involve an avatar that jumps, climbs, or runs across many challenging levels, with the interface featuring simple controls and a side view. Although Donkey Kong is widely considered the first true platformer game, other titles in this genre include Ori & The Blind Forest, Crash Bandicoot, and Cuphead.
Conclusion
As game developers and designers release new styles and games every year, video game genres continue to evolve and grow. The variety can seem overwhelming, but it is a clear sign of the healthy growth being experienced by the gaming market. As you explore these options, keep in mind that some games can blur the line between two or even three genres. You just need to pick what works for you.
