Types of Video Games: The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Genres and Subgenres

Video games have become one of the most diverse and complex forms of entertainment in the world. Today, there are thousands of titles for all tastes, styles, and ages. To make the best choice, it's essential to understand video game genres and subgenres , as they define the gameplay, pace, and experience each title offers.

This guide will help you identify the main types of games, their characteristics, and the best examples of each. Whether you're a new or experienced player, understanding these categories will help you find the games that best suit your style.

1. Action
   • They are games focused on reaction time, reflexes and fast combat .
   • They usually include fights, shootings or chases.
   • Examples: Doom Eternal , Devil May Cry 5 , Cuphead .
2. Adventure
   • They focus on exploration, narrative, and puzzle solving .
   • They usually have open or semi-open environments with story progression.
   • Examples: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild , Uncharted 4 , Life is Strange .
3. Role-playing game (RPG)
   • Players take on a character who progresses in skills, levels, or decisions .
   • They can be turn-based or real-time.
   • Examples: The Witcher 3 , Final Fantasy VII Remake , Persona 5 .
4. Shooter (FPS and TPS)
   • Focused on shooting, either first person (FPS) or third person (TPS) .
   • They include campaigns, multiplayer or cooperative modes.
   • Examples: Call of Duty , Overwatch , Fortnite .
5. Strategy
   • They require planning, resource management and tactical decision making .
   • They can be turn-based (TBS) or real-time (RTS).
   • Examples: Age of Empires , XCOM 2 , Civilization VI .
6. Simulation
   • They recreate real-life situations or complex environments.
   • They may include aviation, farms, cities, or human relations.
   • Examples: The Sims 4 , Microsoft Flight Simulator , Stardew Valley .
7. Sports and racing
   • They include football, basketball, motorsports and more .
   • They usually have multiplayer modes and competitive tournaments.
   • Examples: FIFA 24 , NBA 2K , Gran Turismo 7 .
8. Platforms
   • They are based on jumping, dodging obstacles and advancing through levels .
   • They are ideal for all ages and have straightforward gameplay.
   • Examples: Super Mario Bros. , Celeste , Hollow Knight .
9. Struggle
   • Focused on one-on-one or group combat , with unique combos and styles.
   • They tend to have a competitive approach.
   • Examples: Street Fighter 6 , Super Smash Bros. Ultimate , Tekken 7 .
10. Terror / Horror
    • Designed to provoke tension, fear or suspense , often with limited resources.
    • They can include combat or simply survival.
    • Examples: Resident Evil 4 Remake , Amnesia: The Bunker , Dead Space .

In addition to the main genres, there are hybrid subgenres that combine mechanics and styles. Some popular ones are:

• Metroidvania : a combination of platforming and exploration with skill progression (e.g., Ori and the Will of the Wisps ).
• Battle Royale : Many players compete until only one remains (eg: Apex Legends , PUBG ).
• Roguelike / Roguelite : permanent death, random maps and progress by attempts (eg: Hades , Dead Cells ).
• MMORPG : massively multiplayer online role-playing games (e.g. World of Warcraft , Final Fantasy XIV ).
• Sandbox : total freedom to build, explore or modify the world (e.g. Minecraft , Terraria ).
• Narrative / Visual novels : story-focused, with decisions that alter the ending (e.g. Detroit: Become Human ).

Each subgenre has a specific community and can offer hundreds of hours of gameplay.

To find the type of game that best suits you, ask yourself these questions:

• Do you prefer to play alone or with friends?
• Do you like fast-paced action or do you prefer to solve puzzles slowly?
• Are you more interested in a deep story or online competition?
• How much time do you want to dedicate to a game?

If you're new, you can start with hybrid or accessible games , such as narrative adventures or casual simulators. If you're competitive, shooters or fighting games might be for you. And if you enjoy expansive worlds and customization, RPGs and sandboxes are a great option.

Knowing the genres and subgenres of video games allows you to make better choices and enjoy your games more. It's not just about graphics or popularity; it's about finding the type of experience that aligns with your tastes, your time, and your playstyle.

Whether you're looking for adrenaline, strategy, an immersive story, or just casual fun, there's a genre for you. Explore, experiment, and discover what kind of gamer you really are.