History of Video Games: Genres and Creative Opportunities

Video games are a vast and diverse medium, offering experiences for nearly every interest. Whether you’re drawn to racing, sports, sci-fi, or action, there’s a genre that suits you. For those aspiring to create their games, understanding the different types of video games and their sub-genres is essential. Here’s a comprehensive guide to exploring video game genres, history, and how you can empower your child to become a game creator.

Empowering Future Game Developers

Encourage your child to dive into the world of game development with award-winning live online coding classes. These classes, designed by professionals from Google, Stanford, and MIT, are perfect for all skill levels. Choose from:

• Scratch Ninja (Grades 2-5, beginners)
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The History of Video Games

History of Video games, now a global phenomenon, have a fascinating history that dates back decades. From simple origins to complex systems, here are some historical milestones:

• 1952: The first video game, “OXO,” was created at Cambridge University.
• 1973: Atari released Pong, introducing video games to the masses.
• 1980s-90s: The console wars saw iconic releases like Nintendo’s NES, Sega Genesis, and the Game Boy.
• 2000s: 3D games gained prominence with titles like Halo and World of Warcraft.
• Today: Gaming thrives with advanced consoles, immersive VR, and mobile gaming experiences.

How Many Video Game Genres Are There?

There are around 10 main genres of video games, each featuring multiple sub-genres. While some games blend elements from multiple genres, here are the most popular ones:

1. Role-Playing Games (RPGs):
   RPGs are known for their immersive storytelling and world-building. Players assume the roles of characters to achieve specific goals. Popular sub-genres include:
   • Massive Multiplayer Online RPGs (MMORPGs): Examples: World of Warcraft, Elder Scrolls Online
   • Sandbox RPGs: Example: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
   • Classic RPGs: Examples: Skyrim, Final Fantasy
2. Sports Games:
   From real-world simulations to imaginative variations, sports games offer endless entertainment.
   • Realistic Sports Games: Examples: FIFA, NBA 2K
   • Arcade Sports: Example: Rocket League
3. Racing and Simulation Games:
   Racing and simulation games fulfil the desire for speed or precision.
   • Racing Games: Examples: Forza Motorsport, GRID Autosport
   • Vehicle Simulators: Examples: Microsoft Flight Simulator, American Truck Simulator
4. Sandbox Games:
   These non-linear games encourage exploration and creativity.
   • Crafting Sandboxes: Example: Minecraft
   • Space Sandboxes: Example: No Man’s Sky
5. Casual and Idle Games:
   Simple mechanics make these games accessible for short play sessions.
   • Clicker Games: Example: Cookie Clicker
   • Tycoon Games: Examples: Idle Miner Tycoon, Idle Construction 3D
6. Puzzle Games:
   Puzzle games challenge players’ minds with varying levels of complexity.
   • Classic Puzzle Games: Example: Tetris
   • Hidden Object Games: Example: Hidden City
   • Word Games: Examples: Wordle, Words with Friends
7. Real-Time Strategy (RTS):
   Players must strategize and adapt quickly in RTS games.
   • Tower Defense: Example: Bloons TD
   • MOBA (Massively Online Battle Arena): Examples: League of Legends, DOTA 2
8. Turn-Based Strategy (TBS):
   These games emphasize planning and strategy.
   • Classic Examples: Pokemon, Civilization

Why Casual and RPG Games Dominate

RPGs have always been a favourite due to their immersive storytelling and multiplayer options, which encourage social interaction. Casual games, on the other hand, cater to busy gamers who prefer quick, easy-to-learn experiences. With the rise of smartphones, mobile gaming has further amplified the popularity of casual games.

Explore and Create Your Favorite Game Genre

Now that you’ve learned about the major video game genres, why not dive into one that piques your interest? After exploring, take the next step by creating your own video game! Enrol in expert-led game coding classes and camps designed for kids and teens to bring their gaming dreams to life.

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