pelisarjan

Pelisarjan is the Finnish term for a game series, referring to a set of games that share a common universe, characters, or gameplay mechanics and are typically produced by the same company or brand. The concept is used across digital video games and, more broadly, in tabletop and other formats where multiple titles are linked.

Etymology and usage: Pelisarja combines peli (game) and sarja (series). The genitive pelisarjan is used when speaking about a particular series, for example pelisarjan seuraava osa means the next installment in the series. In Finnish media, pelisarja is used similarly to English "franchise" or "game series," covering both major franchises and longer-running game lines.

Structure and development: A pelisarja usually includes several installments, possibly with spin-offs, remasters, or reboots. Installments may advance a narrative arc or explore different settings while preserving a shared core, such as characters, world-building, or gameplay systems. Some pelisarjat continue for decades and become central to a studio's identity.

Impact and reception: Pelisarjat influence marketing, fan communities, and merchandise. They can define a studio's reputation and drive cross-media adaptation, while risk fatigue if new entries lack innovation.