Game Development Reference
In-Depth Information
Table 9-2.
Video Game Genres
Genre
Characteristics
Examples
Action
Requires good hand-eye coordination and quick
reflexes to play
Gameplay often involves combat
Shooters
Platformers
Stealth
Fighting games
Adventure
Does not require quick reflexes to play
Gameplay involves puzzle solving via interaction with
the characters and environment of the game
Role-playing
MMORPG*
Graphic based
Text based
Survival
Horror
Strategy
Requires careful long-term thinking and planning
Player typically has a “godlike” view
Turn-based strategy
Real-time strategy
Tower defense
Wargames
Sports
Gameplay based on an athletic competition or sport
As player
As coach/manager
Racing
Simulation
Gameplay simulates reality
Vehicle
Life
Pet
Construction
Management
Puzzle
Gameplay based on problem solving
logic
pattern completion
word games
*MMORPG = massively multiplayer online role-playing game.
Themes
The primary basis of a theme choice might be based on a certain time period, environment,
technology, or character type.
Time Period
Environment
Technology
Character Types
Medieval
Amusement park
Medieval
Angels
Victorian
Jungle
Science fiction
Dinosaurs
Present
Dungeon
Fantasy/magical
Robots
Alternate history
School
Steampunk
Organized crime
(
continued
)
