Genres in video games used to be much more clearly defined. But things have taken an intriguing turn today. Developers are blending diverse game types in surprising ways, resulting in a rich tapestry of genres and subgenres. This perpetual change keeps the game industry exciting.
In this guide, we will explore popular video game genres and games you can play using your Xfinity Internet Wi-Fi. Let’s dive in!
Sandbox
The phrase “sandbox” refers to more than simply a technical term; it can also refer to a specific game mode or even an entire genre. Open worlds, non-linearity, and player agency are key features. Sandbox games have a wide variety of objectives that can be fulfilled in many ways. As a result, gamers are drawn deeper into the action and are more likely to try out new gameplay elements.
It’s not uncommon for sandbox games to be just conceptual, with no “real” gameplay aspects at all. The 1984 video game “Elite,” for instance, featured straightforward gameplay that centered on battle, exploration, and commerce.
The Sims and other simulation games are now considered to be sandbox games. Popular series like Minecraft and Grand Theft Auto fall into this category as well. Expect more genre-blending in video games as game worlds grow and narratives branch out.
Real-Time Strategy
The genre of real-time strategy games has been around for much longer than the average gamer realizes. Human and computer-controlled opponents command opposing sides in these games, which take place in “real-time.” Top-down views are common, and they typically feature resource and map management.
Popular real-time strategy games include Warcraft, Age of Empires, and Command & Conquer. Also deserving of recognition are turn-based strategy games like the Civilization series. The Total War series is just one example of a game that successfully combines the two approaches.
Shooters (FPS and TPS)
First-person shooters (FPS) and third-person shooters (TPS) are the two most prominent sub-genres within the larger shooter genre. Today, it is common in video games to switch between first-person and third-person views.
Games like Half-Life, Call of Duty, and DOOM are examples of first-person shooters. Games like Gears of War and Tom Clancy’s The Division use a third-person shooter (TPS) perspective, which pulls the camera back to reveal the full world.
Both first-person shooters and third-person shooters are common topics of conversation in the gaming community. For instance, Grand Theft Auto V combines cutting-edge sandbox gameplay with major first-person shooter components.
Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA)
Similarities between real-time strategy games and multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) games include an emphasis on a top-down view, map and resource management, and real-time player competition. The main difference is in having command of one character as opposed to a whole army.
Popular eSports titles in this field include Dota 2 and League of Legends. Multiplayer dynamics and cooperative play shine in these games.
Role-Playing (RPG, ARPG, And More)
One of the most common types of video games is a role-playing game, in which the player creates or takes control of a character who gains experience and levels up. Many distinct subgenres have emerged from this over time.
● Role-playing games (RPGs) include both traditional tabletop games like Dungeons & Dragons and digital RPGs like Fallout.
● Games like The Witcher 3 are examples of the ARPG genre, which fuses action and role-playing features.
● Examples of CRPGs include the first two Fallout games, both of which were developed in the West for PC players.
● Games like World of Warcraft and Elder Scrolls Online are examples of a specific type of video game known as a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (or “MMORPG”).
● Games like the XCOM series are examples of tactical role-playing games (TRPG), which reward players for using their imagination and making split-second decisions.
Simulation and Sports
The evolution of computer graphics has allowed for increasingly lifelike experiences in simulation and sports games. Games in the sports genre often collaborate with official leagues and federations to create authentic simulations. Standards are set by games like NBA 2K, Madden NFL, and Forza.
On the other hand, the goal of simulation games is to create truly enormous gaming environments. The border between simulation and sandbox is blurred in games like Minecraft and The Sims.
Party Games and Puzzlers
The focus on gameplay mechanics is a common denominator between puzzle games and social games. Multiplayer features take party games to the next level. One excellent example is the Mario Party game.
Games in this genre can range from being very basic, like Minesweeper, to being quite complex, like the Tomb Raider series. These are essential components because of their fundamental role in incorporating puzzles into the action.
Action-Adventure
The best action-adventure games find a happy medium between story, combat, and intense gameplay. Their creative storytelling and exciting battles keep players hooked. Popular examples of this type of game are The Legend of Zelda and Assassin’s Creed.
The majority of adventure games are classified as point-and-click titles. Games like King’s Quest and Escape from Monkey Island come to mind.
Conclusion
There’s a genre perfect for you whether you like to engage in real-time strategy, plunge into action-packed shooters, or solve mind-bending puzzles. The gaming industry is always changing as designers push the boundaries of what can be done to provide players with more and more alternatives.