In this article we are going to cover the Video Game Genres through a A Breakdown of Popular and Niche Types as allow for a better knowledge of the main building blocks to make a game, and that in some manner locks some of the main game mechanics that we can be using in your game.
Video Game Genres
Video Game Genres Breakdown
In the next sections we are going to make and high level review of the main game genres or game types that you can find on the market.
I. Introduction
Video games have been a favorite pastime for many individuals for several decades, and the industry has continued to grow, expand, and evolve. With the rise of various gaming platforms, genres, and sub-genres, it can be challenging to keep up with all the changes. However, understanding the different types of video game genres is crucial for both players and game developers.
Video game genres refer to categories that games are grouped into based on their gameplay mechanics, objectives, and settings. There are several different types of video game genres, each with its unique gameplay mechanics, styles, and sub-genres. It is essential to understand these genres to determine the type of game you enjoy playing and the type of game you want to develop.
II. Definition of Video Game Genres
In the world of gaming, genres serve as a categorization system that helps players and developers identify and distinguish different types of games. Video game genres can be defined as a way of classifying games based on their gameplay mechanics, storylines, graphics, and overall style.
Variety of videogames genres research Source: Reaearchgate
The importance of video game genres lies in the fact that they help players find games that align with their preferences and interests. For example, if a player enjoys fast-paced action and intense combat, they might be drawn to games in the first-person shooter or action/adventure genres. On the other hand, if a player prefers slower, more strategic gameplay, they might be more interested in games in the strategy or simulation genres.
Similarly, game developers also rely on genres as a way to target specific audiences and create games that are tailored to their preferences. By understanding the characteristics of each genre, developers can design games that fit within those parameters while also innovating and creating new gameplay mechanics.
Moreover, video game genres also help in marketing and promotion. When a game is marketed as a specific genre, it can be easier for players to understand what to expect from the game, which can make it more appealing to them. This, in turn, can lead to higher sales and better critical reception for the game.
In summary, video game genres are an essential tool for both players and developers in the gaming industry. They provide a way to categorize and identify different types of games, making it easier for players to find games that suit their preferences and for developers to create games that appeal to specific audiences.
III. Popular Video Game Genres
When it comes to video game genres, there are a handful that have remained popular and enduring over the years. Here, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most popular video game genres and what makes them so appealing to players.
Video Game Genres – Action/Adventure
a. Action/Adventure
The action/adventure genre is one of the most popular and diverse genres in gaming. Games in this genre typically feature fast-paced, exciting action sequences combined with exploration and puzzle-solving elements. Players often take on the role of a hero or heroine who must embark on a quest or mission to save the world or rescue someone they care about. Examples of popular action/adventure games include the Uncharted series, the Legend of Zelda series, and the Tomb Raider series.
Video Game Genres -Role-playing
b. Role-playing
The role-playing genre, or RPG, is all about immersing the player in a rich, detailed world where they can create and customize their own character and shape their destiny. RPGs often feature complex storylines, intricate character development systems, and plenty of side quests and activities to explore. Examples of popular RPGs include the Elder Scrolls series, the Final Fantasy series, and the Mass Effect series.
c. First-person shooter
First-person shooter (FPS) games are all about fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled action. Players take on the role of a character who is armed with an array of weapons and must use their skills to take down enemies and complete objectives. FPS games often feature multiplayer modes where players can compete against each other in teams or individually. Examples of popular FPS games include Call of Duty, Battlefield, and Halo.
d. Sports
Sports games simulate real-world sports and allow players to compete against each other or against AI opponents. These games often feature realistic graphics and physics engines, as well as accurate representations of real-world teams and athletes. Examples of popular sports games include FIFA, NBA 2K, and Madden NFL.
e. Strategy
Strategy games are all about planning, resource management, and tactics. These games often take place in a fictional or historical setting and require players to build and manage a base, army, or empire while competing against other players or AI opponents. Examples of popular strategy games include Starcraft, Civilization, and Total War.
f. Simulation
Simulation games aim to simulate real-world activities or scenarios. These games often feature highly detailed and accurate simulations of vehicles, cities, or businesses, allowing players to experience what it’s like to be a pilot, a city planner, or a business owner. Examples of popular simulation games include The Sims, SimCity, and Microsoft Flight Simulator.
g. Puzzle
Puzzle games are all about using your brain to solve increasingly difficult challenges. These games often feature abstract graphics and simple mechanics, but require a great deal of strategy and critical thinking. Examples of popular puzzle games include Tetris, Candy Crush, and Portal.
h. Platformer
Platformer games are all about navigating through complex levels filled with obstacles and enemies. These games often feature colorful graphics and catchy music, and require precise timing and dexterity to complete. Examples of popular platformer games include Super Mario Bros., Sonic the Hedgehog, and Celeste.
In summary, these are just a few examples of the most popular video game genres. Each genre has its own unique characteristics and appeal, making it easy for players to find games that match their preferences and interests.
IV. Sub-Genres of Video Game Genres
While video game genres provide a broad categorization of games, many genres also have sub-genres that allow for even more specific classifications. Here are some popular sub-genres within each of the main video game genres:
a. Action/Adventure
- Survival-horror: A sub-genre that emphasizes horror elements and limited resources, such as ammunition or health packs.
- Stealth: A sub-genre that requires the player to avoid detection by enemies and rely on strategy and patience.
b. Role-playing
- MMORPGs: Massively multiplayer online role-playing games that allow players to interact with each other in a virtual world.
- Action RPGs: RPGs that emphasize real-time combat and reflexes.
c. First-person shooter
- Tactical shooter: A sub-genre that emphasizes strategy and teamwork over reflexes and fast-paced action.
- Hero shooter: A sub-genre that features a diverse cast of playable characters, each with unique abilities and roles.
d. Sports
- Racing games: A sub-genre that focuses on high-speed driving and vehicle customization.
- Simulation sports games: A sub-genre that emphasizes realistic gameplay and accurate depictions of real-life sports.
e. Strategy
- Real-time strategy games: A sub-genre that requires players to manage resources and build armies in real-time.
- Turn-based strategy games: A sub-genre that emphasizes turn-based combat and resource management.
f. Simulation
- Life simulation games: A sub-genre that allows players to control virtual characters and simulate aspects of daily life, such as career, relationships, and personal finance.
- Vehicle simulation games: A sub-genre that allows players to control and customize vehicles, such as airplanes, trains, and ships.
g. Puzzle
- Point-and-click adventure games: A sub-genre that emphasizes exploration and puzzle-solving in a narrative-driven context.
- Platform puzzle games: A sub-genre that combines platforming with puzzle-solving elements.
h. Platformer
- Metroidvania: A sub-genre that features interconnected levels and requires players to backtrack and revisit previously explored areas.
- Endless runner: A sub-genre that features a continuously scrolling environment and requires players to dodge obstacles and enemies for as long as possible.
Understanding the sub-genres within each video game genre can help players and developers better navigate the vast world of video games and find games that align with their preferences and interests.
V. Crossover Video Game Genres
Video game genres can often overlap and blend together, resulting in unique hybrid genres that offer players a different experience than traditional games. These crossover genres often blend elements from multiple genres to create a new and exciting gameplay experience. Here are some examples of popular crossover video game genres:
a. Action/RPG The action/RPG genre blends elements of both action and role-playing games. These games often feature real-time combat systems and character progression mechanics that are commonly found in RPGs. The player takes on the role of a character and must complete quests, defeat enemies, and level up their character’s abilities to progress through the game.
b. Adventure/Simulation The adventure/simulation genre combines elements of adventure and simulation games to create a more immersive experience. These games often feature open-world environments where the player can explore and interact with various characters and objects. They also include simulation elements, such as managing resources or building structures, to add another layer of depth to the gameplay.
c. Puzzle/Platformer The puzzle/platformer genre blends puzzle-solving elements with traditional platforming gameplay. These games often require the player to solve puzzles to progress through the level or to reach a specific goal. They may also feature unique mechanics, such as gravity manipulation or time manipulation, to add an extra layer of complexity to the puzzles.
d. Strategy/Simulation The strategy/simulation genre combines elements of strategy and simulation games. These games often feature complex resource management systems and require the player to make strategic decisions to succeed. They may also include city-building or empire-building mechanics, where the player must manage their resources and expand their territory to achieve victory.
Crossover video game genres offer players a unique and exciting gameplay experience, as they blend elements from different genres to create something new. Developers are always looking for new ways to innovate and create fresh gameplay experiences, and crossover genres are just one of the ways they can do so.
VI. Niche Video Game Genres
Video games have a vast array of genres, and while some genres may be more popular than others, there are niche genres that cater to specific audiences. These niche genres are referred to as niche video game genres, and they may not be as well-known or widely played as the popular genres, but they have a dedicated fan base.
- Visual Novel: A visual novel is an interactive fiction game that typically has static graphics and focuses on narrative storytelling. In these games, players read through text and make choices that affect the outcome of the story. Visual novels often have multiple branching storylines and endings, making them highly replayable.
- Dating Sim: Dating sims are similar to visual novels, but the focus is on romance and relationships. Players interact with various characters and make choices that affect the relationship between the player character and the other characters in the game. The goal of these games is often to pursue a romantic relationship with one of the characters.
- Rhythm Games: Rhythm games involve players following a sequence of button presses or movements in time with music. These games often include a variety of music genres and can range from simple button pressing to more complex dance or instrument simulations.
- Fighting Games: Fighting games are competitive games where players engage in one-on-one combat with each other. These games often have a variety of characters to choose from, each with their own unique moves and abilities. Players must use their skill and knowledge of the game to outwit and defeat their opponents.
- Roguelike/Lite: Roguelike/lite games are characterized by randomly generated levels, permadeath, and turn-based gameplay. These games often involve exploring a dungeon or other dangerous environment, fighting monsters, and gathering loot. Roguelike/lite games can be challenging, but the random generation and permadeath mechanics keep players coming back for more.
- Idle Games: Idle games, also known as clicker games or incremental games, are games where the player’s progress is based on incremental gains. Players often start with a small resource and must make choices on how to allocate it to gain more resources. The gameplay in these games often involves clicking or tapping to generate resources automatically.
- Incremental Games: Incremental games are similar to idle games, but they often have more complex gameplay mechanics. Players may have to manage multiple resources, build structures, and make strategic decisions to progress through the game. These games often have a long-term focus and can be played for months or even years.
While these niche video game genres may not be as well-known as the popular genres, they offer a unique experience for players who are looking for something different. Whether it’s exploring multiple storylines in a visual novel or managing resources in an incremental game, there is a niche genre out there for everyone.
VII. Conclusion
In conclusion, video game genres are an important aspect of the gaming industry. By understanding different video game genres, players can find games that align with their interests and preferences. Additionally, game developers can use genre conventions to create games that meet the expectations of their target audience.
We have covered some of the most popular video game genres, including action/adventure, role-playing, first-person shooter, sports, strategy, simulation, puzzle, and platformer. We have also discussed sub-genres and crossover genres that add new elements to traditional genres, as well as niche genres that appeal to smaller audiences.
Whether you are a player looking for your next favorite game or a game developer looking to create a successful title, understanding video game genres is crucial. By understanding the conventions and characteristics of each genre, players and developers alike can make informed decisions and create more engaging and enjoyable gaming experiences. So, the next time you’re looking for a new game to play or thinking about a career in game development, consider the different video game genres and what they have to offer.
We will be expanding this article into sub articles covering each of the genres and subgenres of games, stay tuned for the next content on this serie on our blog.
