A computer (PC) can play a wide variety of games, but playing the latest and fanciest requires expensive hardware upgrades. Desktops are much better for gaming than laptops. [2] X Research source A console (typically an Xbox, PlayStation, Wii/Wii U or Nintendo Switch) is a cheaper option if you don’t already have a computer, and requires no technical know-how at all to use. You’ll have a much more limited selection of games, and every few years you’ll need to buy the next generation console if you want to play new games. If you have neither of the above, you can play on a smart phone, tablet, or portable gaming device, or you can play real-world games described at the end of this section.
For computer games, download the free software Steam. This is a hugely popular place to buy games, and the constant discount deals and community discussions are a great way to find new recommendations as well. Most of the recommendations below were released in the last few years, and may still be available at brick-and-mortar game shops.
For a huge variety of options, try a mobile app store, or a large game collection website like Kongregate and Armor Games. Most Nintendo games are designed to focus on fun and enjoying yourself with friends, including Mario Kart, Wii Sports, or Mario Party.
Platformers involve navigating an obstacle course of blocks and enemies. Play the classic Super Mario, challenge yourself with Super Meat Boy, or add story and fighting with the Ratchet & Clank series. For pure, fast-paced finger-tapping, try a rhythm game like Dance Dance Revolution or its keyboard version Step Mania, or a shoot ’em up (“shmup”) like Ikaruga or Radiant Silvergun. Sports games are typically re-released each year so you can play as famous athletes. Pick your favorite sport and you can probably find a video game version, such as Madden or FIFA. Fighting games like Super Smash Bros. or Guilty Gear are competitive games that reward reflexes and muscle memory.
Minecraft is by far the most popular of these games. If you’re looking for something with less blocky graphics, try Spore. Sandbox games don’t have to be “casual. " Dwarf Fortress has sent thousands of “hardcore gamers” running due to its incredibly complex world, displayed entirely in text.
If you love action or adventure stories, play the hero in games like Prince of Persia or Assassin’s Creed, or the famous (and family-friendly) Legend of Zelda game. If you enjoy horror films, find out what it’s like to be in one with Silent Hill or Resident Evil. When you just need to let it all out, pick up Saint’s Row or Grand Theft Auto and embark on a ridiculous crime spree.
A few of the most famous RPG series that focus on story and player choice include Dragon Age, Mass Effect, and Final Fantasy. Unusual, strange settings are shown off in the Bioshock and Dark Souls series, while the Elder Scrolls series gives you an enormous, classic fantasy world to explore. On the extreme end of the scale, games that have incredibly in-depth stories include Planescape: Torment, and every game from Spiderweb Software.
First-person shooters (FPS’s) are mostly known for their online multiplayer modes, in which players compete as enemy soldiers fighting in a complex environment. Call of Duty and Battlefield are good introductions to the genre. Multi-player online battle arenas (MOBAs) are team-versus-team games, usually with a fantasy theme. Compares to FPS’s, overall strategy is more important and short-term reflexes and tactics somewhat less so. Try Defense of the Ancients (DoTA) and League of Legends (LoL). Real time strategy games (RTS’s) involve clashing civilizations, building cities and armies and waging all-out war with your opponents. Starcraft is focused on extremely rapid decision-making, while the Total War series is on the other side of the spectrum, emphasizing long-term strategy and careful tactical planning. Massively multiplayer role-playing games (MMORPGs or MMOs) have you play with hundreds of other players. You’ve likely heard of World of Warcraft, but also consider Star Wars: The Old Republic or Guild Wars 2.
Famous, deeply strategic board games such as Settlers of Catan or Dominion are easy enough to play with non-gamer friends, but can require hundreds of hours to master. Tabletop role-playing games such as Dungeons and Dragons or Pathfinder let you tell a story with your friends. [10] X Research source Collectible card games (CCGs or TCGs) such as Magic: the Gathering or Yu-Gi-Oh! let you combine hundreds of pieces to let you play the style of game you most enjoy. [11] X Research source These tend to be more expensive compared to other gaming hobbies, but your local game store may run cheap events for new players.
Against your friends, light-hearted boasting and insults is usually expected, not handshakes and formality. If anyone gets angry, take a break so he can cool down.
Most games have a block or ignore function that prevents a player from contacting you.
A newbie is a player who’s just started playing the game. “Noob” is a somewhat rude synonym. [13] X Research source Afk means “away from keyboard” — the player is taking a break. gg means “good game,” something polite to say after the game ends. 1337, l33t, or leet all mean “elite,” or highly skilled. This is old school slang, now often used as a sarcastic or self-deprecating joke. When someone is pwned, they’re losing horribly to an opponent.
If the game makes you feel frustrated or too agitated, it is better to take a break.
A gaming mouse and ergonomic keyboard that comfortably fits your hand is invaluable for many games. If you’re playing on a laptop, any external mouse and keyboard at all is better than your track pad and built-in keyboard. A headset will let you communicate with allies in multiplayer games, without having to spend time typing.
Even if you want to make money reviewing games or entertaining fans by recording yourself playing games, you’ll still need to focus on new and popular games, especially when you’re first starting out, or no one will be interested.
Post a link on the game’s forums or social media accounts to advertise your channel. A few games, such as Magic: the Gathering, also make it possible to earn money through writing strategy articles and publishing them on a website. This is mostly true for collectible card games, since secondary retailers want to attract people to their website to purchase product.
Post a link on the game’s forums or social media accounts to advertise your channel. A few games, such as Magic: the Gathering, also make it possible to earn money through writing strategy articles and publishing them on a website. This is mostly true for collectible card games, since secondary retailers want to attract people to their website to purchase product.
