Types of Common Online Game Genres

For many people, playing online games has become a great source of fun and entertainment for all ages of people. Online games can be found on hundreds of websites and can keep players of all skill levels entertained for hours on end. With the advent of video game technology, software innovations and the vast creativity of video game developers, there are many types of online genres that players can choose from in order to satisfy their online gaming urges. Before you set out into the wide open world of online gaming, it is a great idea to become familiar with the different genres that make up the online gaming landscape. Once you understand some of underlying concepts that define a few of these genres, you can decide which types of games best suit your preferences and playing skills.

First Person Shooter

This genre on online video game is centered on characters engaging in gun and other projectile forms of combat that is done from a first-person perspective. Players see the action from the view of the shooter and the movements of the shooter reflect what at actual person would see or do while playing the game. First person shooter games usually show the shooter’s (also called the protagonist) arms at the bottom of the screen, carrying whatever weapon they are equipped with at that moment. The gamer is moves his character (or avatar) through the scene or playing field by moving it forward, backward, or sideways using the game controller. Forward movements result in the avatar moving forward through the scene and the avatar usually walks with slight side-to-side rocking motion in order to properly simulate the human gait. In addition to the game’s regular side effects, first person shooter games will include other sound effects such as breathing and footsteps. First person shooter games may also be played in multiplayer mode and involves scenarios such as search and destroy missions, team death matches and assaults on enemy headquarters or bases.

Online Casino Games

Online casino games are another genre of online games that have becoming increasingly popular among gamers worldwide. These online casino games replicate the games that are played in real casinos, and some of these games can involve transactions involving real money and also include real bonuses and prizes with winnings. These games can either be web-based or download-based, depending on the type of computer interface that is utilized by developers. Web-based casino games allow players to play without downloading any software because the games themselves are featured in “plug-ins” such as Flash, Shockwave or Java. Download-based casino games require downloading software in order play and be able to make wagers on the games that are offered. The software used connects to the casino service provider and will handle contact without the use of browser support. Download based casino games also load faster, but can be susceptible to malware and viruses.

Massively Multiplayer Online Games

Massively multiplayer online games are multiplayer games which are capable of supporting hundreds and even thousands of players at the same time. Typically, these games are played online and players interact in a persistent virtual universe where gameplay continues regardless if players leave the game. In this genre players assume the role of a character and are part of the larger storyline or narrative. Massively multiplayer online games usually adopt themes and storylines revolving around fantasy and science fiction. Additionally, these games rarely have single-player aspects built in to its design and the games are designed so that players can’t finish or “beat the game”. In order to support the number of players, the game worlds that are created are large and may require several servers. Another unique feature of this genre is the concept of the virtual economy where players can earn and accumulate virtual money to buy supplies and receive services within this world.