The Definition of Game
Whether we’re discussing the pixelated 2D blocks of Tetris or the fully immersive virtual worlds of Fortnite, video games are a unique form of entertainment that have to be experienced to be understood. They’re also a form of media that has been the subject of much debate over what exactly defines them. Many scholars, writers and players have struggled to create a definition of game that doesn’t leave out things that are clearly games (too narrow) or include things that are not clearly games (too broad).
The definitions of game tend to focus on the goals, challenges and outcomes of play. These tend to be quite granular and vary between games. However, they all share one common element that is the presence of goals for players to achieve in gameplay. These goals could be anything from accumulating points or tokens to reaching specific milestones within the game.
These goals set the direction and purpose of gameplay for most players. They also serve to provide a sense of achievement for players that is different from other forms of digital entertainment. Often, games are designed with the idea of making this achievement difficult for players. This is largely because of the way that most games use rules to limit the ways in which players can reach their objectives in a way that is most efficient for them.
Other interpretations of games have tended to place more emphasis on the role of gaming as an activity that takes place in a secondary or auxiliary context to other aspects of life. This has been popularized by the concepts of applied games and games-based learning. However, this interpretation also raises the question of whether games are a form of entertainment or a form of education.
For some, a definition of game may be more based on the philosophy that games are the voluntary attempt to overcome unnecessary obstacles. This definition is rooted in the magic circle of games, which is the concept that defines the nature of gameplay and sets certain expectations from players. It is also influenced by the fact that most games require some form of commitment to playing and can have consequences for players based on their decisions in gameplay.
Finally, there are games that are defined by their aesthetics and the artistic expression of the creators. These games often rely on a combination of elements including graphics, sound effects and music to make them interesting and engaging. This can be combined with haptic feedback for the player that is commonly used on certain gaming platforms. This includes the ability to shake the controller in the player’s hand as a form of feedback on the action that is occurring in the game. This is designed to evoke an emotional reaction from the player and add an extra dimension to their gameplay experience. This kind of game has not been included in the definitions of game that are usually discussed, but it has been cited as an example of how games can be both art and entertainment.