Games

Games are structured activities that involve rules, goals, and interaction among players or between a player and a system. They are undertaken for entertainment, skill development, education, exploration, or social engagement. Games can be physical or digital, solitary or cooperative, and may simulate real or imagined scenarios.

Categories of games are diverse. Board games and card games rely on tangible components and social interaction. Video games are software-based experiences played on consoles, computers, or mobile devices and can involve narrative, puzzle-solving, or competitive play. Sports are organized physical activities with standardized rules and governing bodies. Role-playing games simulate stories through character choices and evolving lore, while puzzles emphasize problem-solving and logic.

Common elements include objectives, rules, and feedback that indicate progress or success. Mechanics define the actions available to players and can include chance, resource management, strategy, timing, and collaboration or opposition. Good game design balances difficulty, accessibility, pacing, and replayability, enabling meaningful choices and varied experiences.

Historically, games date to ancient civilizations and have evolved alongside technology and culture. Traditional board games and card games laid groundwork for strategic thinking and social interaction. The modern era brought mass-produced games and, later, digital entertainment, leading to global industries, online communities, and phenomena such as esports and game streaming. Beyond recreation, games are used in education, training, and therapy, illustrating their broad social and cultural significance.