What is gaming? A computer game is also known as a video game, an interactive computer game that entails interaction with a user interface (computer or video monitor) or external input device to generate physical visual feedback. In computer lingo, the term ‘game’ refers to a set of interacting programs or systems that permit the participant to manipulate the outcome of the interactions via sophisticated strategies. Computer games can be played for single player (one player game); multiplayer games (many players playing the same game at the same time); or role playing (you are the protagonist in your own virtual game). Many popular computer games today include multiplayer options and offer various degrees of difficulty for all players.
Gaming devices are now becoming an important part of our lives. Games consoles such as Play station and Nintendo Wii have become quite popular amongst a number of younger people. These devices can be used to play video games, use accessories such as motion sensor controls, play DVD’s and CD’s, and can even be used as remote control gadgets. Video phones can also be used to play multiplayer games. As more gaming devices are being developed, the internet provides a great source of information on the latest titles. In addition, online gaming sites feature a number of reviews and guides that provide comparisons between different devices and game genres.
Console gaming can be divided into two major categories: hardware-limited and application-limited consoles. Console gaming PC’s are generally much larger and heavier than gaming consoles, and require additional devices (such as keyboards and joysticks) to make certain actions possible. The advantage of using a dedicated gaming PC is the portability of the device and its ability to act as if it is a regular computer.
Console gaming PC’s offer many of the same benefits of the more expensive gaming consoles. These PCs are available for purchase as either integrated (including all the standard features of a full fledged console) or stand alone models. The integrated systems run most of the same versions of Microsoft Windows, but can also be configured to play various proprietary applications. Stand alone consoles do not incorporate any of the built in application support, but do have all the standard features found in other consoles.
Wireless controllers are an important accessory to consider when purchasing gaming devices. Wireless controllers allow for the mobility of playing video games as if they were for real. Controllers can be attached to personal computers via a USB port and then plugged into the system (usually through the back of the TV). The benefit of this setup is that one does not have to use a cord to enjoy the convenience of wireless controllers. However, wireless controllers can also be cumbersome to handle, making them a poor choice for some gamers. Some gaming PC’s include built in controls which can be much easier to use.
With the rising popularity of online multiplayer gaming, more people are buying both consoles and personal computers to play games with friends and strangers alike. Online gaming allows players to form social communities and interact with each other. This type of gaming has a strong influence on the video games industry. It has been predicted that within ten years the majority of console gamers will be connected to their home gaming consoles by means of a high speed internet connection. The internet can be used to play games even when away from the console with the development of’streaming technology’ which allows players to play a game through multiple computer networks.