Computer games, or PC games, are interactive digital mediums consisting of several different genres of digital games. They are played on a personal computer (PC) rather than a console or arcade machine. Their defining characteristics include more diverse and user-determined gaming hardware and software; generally, computers with greater input, processing, video, and audio output capacity.
According to Wikipedia, in 2018, the global PC game market was valued at about $27.7 billion and it is estimated that by 2024 there will be 1.85 billion gamers worldwide. These games vary widely from the first video game Pong (introduced in 1974), to modern-day first-person shooters, adventure games, racing games, role-playing games, puzzle games, strategy games, simulation games, and hybrid combinations.
Computer games usually require a license agreement and can often be distributed via standard storage devices such as CDs and DVDs. Their goal in modern games is to provide players with an enjoyable experience while offering an educational platform for learning new skills. Computer gaming can provide hours of entertainment while fostering analytical thinking skills such as problem-solving and strategic planning.
The action-adventure genre is a video game hybrid combining elements from both action and adventure game genres. This type of video game market typically utilizes reflexes and problem-solving skills to solve situational problems for the player to complete a storyline.
Notable examples of action-adventure games include the classic Tomb Raider, The Last of Us, Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, Atomic Heart, and Hogwarts Legacy. These games have captivated audiences with exciting controls and well-crafted storylines while engaging players in an interactive journey to uncover secrets and reach their objectives.
Action-adventure games require the player to think strategically while also relying on their reflexes. They are often characterized by their highly detailed worlds, story-driven paths, puzzles or quests, and expansive worlds replicating faraway lands or mysterious dungeons. Players experience suspenseful moments as they unlock new areas, defeat enemies, and progress through unique levels, providing an unforgettable gaming journey unlike any other genre available today.
Strategy games are a genre of gaming that relies on a player’s skills in decision-making, situational awareness, and strategy. They often involve uncoerced, autonomous choices and can range from board games to video games, covering topics from military conflicts to economic developments. Strategy games usually contain certain elements like map control, resource management, production chains, and army building.
Popular examples of strategy games include Civilization VI, Supremacy 1914, XCOM 2, Northgard, StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty, Into the Breach, and Company of Heroes. Each game offers its unique spin on classic strategy elements such as turn-based or real-time combat mechanics, grand strategy or tactical playstyles, and various objectives ranging from commanding an entire fleet in space to barking orders to soldiers fighting on a battlefield.
No matter which type suits your particular game play-style best, there’s one thing all strategy game fans can agree on: great strategic thinking is key to success!
Role-playing games (RPGs) are a widely popular video game genre that allows players to take on the role of an in-game character. RPGs often contain narrative elements, have deep storylines, and feature complex character progression and development systems. These types of games encourage players to explore their own personal limits and discover new ways to play the game.
Popular RPG examples include The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Divinity: Original Sin II, The Elder Scrolls V, and Elden Ring. These titles encourage gamers to further immerse themselves in their characters’ experiences by providing expansive worlds to explore, engaging storylines to progress through, and difficult challenges to overcome. Players must make decisions that impact the game’s outcome while thinking strategically about how they use their character’s skills and abilities to achieve their goals.
Despite being a fun pastime for many, role-playing games should be enjoyed responsibly, as they can become addictive if not managed properly. As with anything else in life, moderation is key!
Simulation games are a gaming genre that allows players to experience real-world or fictional scenarios in various environments. They usually involve tasks and challenges that players must complete progressing through the game. Simulation games allow players to practice and develop skills by interacting with their environment.
Popular simulation games include The Sims 4, PC Building Simulator, Cities: Skylines, Kerbal Space Program, and Euro Truck Simulator 2. Each title provides players an authentic experience by recreating real-life settings such as constructing homes, creating cities, launching rockets into space, and driving long distances across Europe.
Simulations can also help increase cognitive processes by allowing people to stock and use information and knowledge more quickly than they would otherwise. Studies have proven this by citing the mirror neurons found in humans, which respond when someone performs certain actions or experiences certain emotions. Simulation games allow you to practice behaviors faster than if you were to observe them in their natural environment.
Sports games are a genre of video gameplay that allows players to compete and/or play simulated versions of real-life sports. Players can either compete in tournaments or against other players, setting their own rules and objectives as they progress through the game.
Popular titles such as Rocket League, Super Mega Baseball 3, FIFA 21, Steep, Genshin Impact, and Stardew Valley allow gamers to test their skills and strategies in a virtual sporting environment. From air racing to soccer and fishing, these games provide an exciting experience for any sports enthusiast.
The great thing about playing sport simulation games is that you can practice your skills without being physically active. You can also challenge yourself with more difficult opponents by competing in tournaments or attempting various objectives as you progress throughout the game.
All this, combined with immersive visuals and sound effects, make sports simulations one of the most popular gaming genres!
#6. First-person shooters
First-person shooters (FPS) are a genre of gaming that puts the player in a first-person perspective, allowing them to navigate a virtual world and be immersed in the action. Popular titles like Doom (2016) and its sequel Doom Eternal allow players to explore and fight against demons, while other games like PlatinumGames’ Vanquish let you battle enemies using power armor from a third-person perspective.
The main feature that sets first-person shooters apart from other types of games is their focus on building an immersive experience. Players can feel as if they are part of the battle themselves, and they take control over all aspects of exploration and combat. Competition between multiple players now is typical in the FPS genre, as multiplayer games like Call of Duty have become massively popular with gamers looking for an adrenaline rush.
Whether exploring relentless dungeons or navigating a modern warzone, FPS games offer gamers intense action and amazing visuals, unlike any other gaming genre.
How to Buy or Download Computer Games Online?
Here are the top 10 online portals from which you can buy or rent computer games.
GOG is a legitimate and secure site to purchase game codes, offering a wide range of classic and new games for Windows, Mac, and Linux systems without digital rights management (DRM) restrictions and including additional freebies.
Humble Bundle offers affordable video games and donates a portion of sales to charity. Its subscription service, Humble Choice, provides monthly games for members to keep – making it an excellent value for avid PC gamers.
While their shipping and customer service may not be impressive, those seeking affordable game rentals or purchases will find a large selection of titles for various platforms and a free trial at this retailer.
The fast SSD, 4K resolution, and reliable 60 fps game performance make this console a worthwhile purchase despite the cost, as it undercuts an equivalent gaming PC and can also access Xbox Cloud Gaming for added versatility.
NVIDIA® 9800 GT (1GB) or AMD HD 4870 (1GB) video card
and at least 4GB RAM.
These are just the minimum requirements; recommended specifications may vary. (Source: Rockstar Games)
The Computer Game- FAQ
What Equipment Do You Need to Play Computer Games?
To have the best possible gaming experience, there are a few essential accessories that every PC gamer should invest in. These include a comfortable gaming chair, a high-quality headset for clear and immersive audio, a responsive mouse for precision control, a large gaming monitor for optimal visual display, and a keyboard with customizable keys for ease of use during gameplay. Additionally, depending on personal preferences and the types of games being played, other accessories such as gamepads or specialized controllers may also be useful. By investing in these key items, gamers can elevate their gameplay and fully immerse themselves in their favorite virtual worlds.
What Are the Benefits and Risks of Online Computer Gaming?
Online computer games and gaming offer a variety of benefits to players. 1. From socializing with other gamers worldwide to improving analytical skills, online gaming can be a positive experience for many. 2. Gameplay improves concentration, as players must focus on their in-game objectives and strategies. 3. Additionally, gaming can serve as a form of relaxation and mood elevation, providing an escape from daily stressors. 4. Online gaming can also offer opportunities for learning new skills and improving vision. 5. Many games require problem-solving and critical thinking skills, which can translate to real-world situations. 6. Some games even incorporate visual exercises that have been shown to improve eyesight.
However, there are risks associated with online gaming that should not be ignored. 1. Viruses are a common threat when downloading games or interacting with other players online. 2. Identity theft is another danger, as hackers may attempt to steal personal information such as credit card numbers or login credentials. 3. Phishing attacks are also a risk, where scammers will attempt to trick players into revealing sensitive information by posing as legitimate game companies or administrators. Overall, while online computer gaming can offer many benefits for players, it is important to be aware of these potential risks and take steps to protect oneself while engaging in gameplay.
How to Pick the Right PC Video Games for You?
When picking PC video games, it is important to consider a few key factors to ensure that the game will run smoothly on your computer and provide an enjoyable gaming experience. One important consideration is the FPS (frames per second) required for the game. This information can typically be found on the game’s system requirements page. Another factor to consider is whether or not the game utilizes real-time raytracing, which can significantly impact graphics quality but also requires a more powerful graphics card. Determining what kind of graphics card you have and what frame rates it can handle is important. A core i5 processor should be sufficient for most games for the CPU. Downloading Windows from the official Microsoft website and ensuring that your graphics card drivers are up-to-date is also recommended. If you plan on playing online multiplayer games, it may be helpful to use platforms such as Discord or GOG Galaxy 2.0 to connect easily with other players. Lastly, make sure to check your monitor’s refresh rate to ensure that it matches or exceeds the FPS required for the game you want to play. Considering these factors when selecting PC video games, you can maximize your gaming experience and avoid technical difficulties or performance issues.
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