Types of games
Click on underlined words below to go to listed games
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There are so many different types of video games out there, so it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start. Here's a general rundown of the different genres of video games, plus some of our game recommendations for newcomers. See which ones sound most interesting to you!
strategy games
Strategy games push players to use clever thinking, planning, and tactics to overcome challenges. If you like chess or outsmarting opponents, this is the game genre for you!
recommended starter games:
Well-known for its dedicated community, Age of Empires II has three game modes. Players can either run through historical battles and war campaigns, play the AI in a more sandbox style, or challenge other players online. This game is simple to learn but complex to master. It also has a thriving Esports community.
Available on: PC (Windows, macOS)
One of the most popular MOBAs (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) in the world, League of Legends is all about teamwork. In this game you and a team of 4 other players attempt to work together to destroy the opposing team's base while at the same time protecting your own. Your team's success and failure depends on how well you and your teammates work together, and if you aren't in sync, thinks typically do not go well. With well over 100 different champions you can choose from, each with different playstyles, you are sure to find something that fits your needs.
Note: The League of Legends player base is notoriously associated with toxicity and harassment. Please be aware of this before deciding to play.
Available on: PC (Windows and Mac OS)
Civilization
Similar in concept to Age of Empires II, Civilization utilizes a turn-based style in place of AOE II's continuous real-time gaming. New versions of this game continue to prosper, with the latest iteration having come out in 2016. This game can be played on single player campaigns or multi-player online matches.
Available on:
Adventure Games
Adventure games have a strong emphasis on storytelling, puzzle-solving, and exploration. Like RPGs, adventure games are one of the more story-heavy genres.
recommended starter games:
Journey has some truly gorgeous visuals and one of the most wholesome takes on online play out there. The other players are anonymous, and you can only communicate with each other through a musical chime. However, there's something about spotting another player for the first time and spending time travelling together that makes you get attached regardless. The game is short, but it's an experience that sticks with you.
Available on: PlayStation consoles (PS4, PS3), PC (Windows), mobile (iOS)
Yes, the Ace Attorney games are about being a defense attorney, but it's in a world where that means solving murder mysteries, dramatically pointing your finger at the true culprit, and watching witnesses have over-the-top breakdowns after you point out the contradictions in their testimonies. In the first game, you even get to cross-examine a parrot, which should give you a good idea of the sort of ridiculousness these games revel in.
Available on: Nintendo consoles (3DS, DS, Switch, Wii), mobile (iOS, Android), PC (Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One
The Stanley Parable is a really cool example of interactive storytelling. Throughout the game, a narrator suggests actions he wants you to take, and you can choose to either go along with his instructions or thumb your nose at him and do the opposite. The narrator will respond to your choices accordingly, causing the story to branch off into different possible paths. It's witty, it's meta, and it may or may not give you a minor existential crisis.
Available on: PC (Windows, macOS, Linux)
Action Adventure Games
Action adventure is kind of a catch-all genre. Typically, action adventure games combine the story and puzzle-solving elements of adventure games with physical challenges to your reflexes and coordination. However, that description applies to a lot of games and genres, so the term "action adventure" is often used for games that don't fall under different, more specific genres.
recommended starter games:
An all-new action-adventure game, inspired by classic dungeon crawlers and set in the Minecraft universe! Use melee swings, hang back with ranged attacks, or tank your way through shielded by heavy armour! Personalize your character, and unlock unique items and weapon enchantments for devastating special attacks. Explore the action-packed, treasure-stuffed levels—all in an epic quest to save the villagers and take down the evil Arch-Illager!
Available on: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Xbox Game Pass
What do you get when you blend the classical stories of Disney and the Final Fantasy series? Something like Kingdom Hearts. Known for its wide cast of characters and somewhat confusing timeline, this is the sort of game that gamers have adored for almost two decades. With easy-to-understand game mechanics and a wide array of available gaming systems, Kingdom Hearts provides a really distinct experience and tone. There really is nothing else quite like it.
Available on: PlayStation consoles (PS4, PS3, PS2, PSP), Nintendo consoles (3DS, DS, Switch), Xbox One, mobile (iOS, Android), web browser,Xbox Game Pass
One of Nintendo classics that has held down Nintendo since 1986. An adventure about a young man named Link that travels through dungeons and puzzles. Zelda games have different story lines with different game play and art styles. Very recommended for teens who love puzzle solving and want to engage into a classic that has complex open world elements. That can inspire teens to make their own type of open world game inspired by Zelda!
Available on: Exclusively for Nintendo Consoles (Nintendo Switch, Wii U, 3DS, etc.)
An action-adventure video game series focusing on fictional British archaeologist Lara Croft, who travels around the world searching for lost artifacts and infiltrating dangerous tombs and ruins. Gameplay generally focuses on exploration of environments, solving puzzles, navigating hostile environments filled with traps, and fighting numerous enemies. Specifically the following games are rated T for teen: Anniversary, Underworld, The Last Revelation, The Last Artifact, Relic Run (mobile), Lara Croft Go (mobile).
Available on: PC (windows, mac OS, Linux), PlayStation (1-4), Nintendo consoles (wii, gameboy, DS), Xbox consoles (360 & One), Mobile (android & iOS)
An action-adventure game similar to Tomb Raider but the main protagonist Nathan Drake, is a male version of Lara Croft. Nathan Drake is a world wise cracking treasure hunter who travels all around the world to find lost treasure from past treasure hunters such as Napoleon and Sir Francis Drake. You also encounter enemies that will try to race to the treasure before you do! The environment that you will engage in the game will make you think you are watching a movie!
Available on: PlayStation consoles (PS4, PS3)
Batman has fought his way through this generation in this Action Open World Franchise in these main titles from 6th and 7th generation. The true character of Batman is done very well along with his arch enemies. Mostly the world of Gotham has been imagined down to the texture and illustration of the comics. Also, the voice acting includes the animated series voice actors from the 90s so it brings nostalgia to hardcore Batman fans!
Available on: PlayStation consoles (PS4, PS3), Xbox consoles (Xbox One, Xbox 360), PC (Windows, macOS)
Spider-Man has been revived by Sony and Insommiac in this new interpretation in this Spider-Man game! A very story driven & action-adventure open world that you get to play one of the most iconic superheros in Marvel Comic. Everything is done right about Spider-Man/Peter Parker daily life to crime fighting tactics and characters you connect in this satisfying expectation of this AAA title. Spider-Man is finally done right based on Stan Lee's and Steve Ditko's vision!
Available on: PlayStation 4
Fighting games
If you want to test your gaming ability in head-to-head competition or just have fun with your friends with some controlled chaos, you've come to the right place. Fighting games usually challenge the player's technical abilities, such as reaction speed, coordination, and proper timing for attacks.
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Brawlhalla is basically a Super Smash Bros clone, but it does things differently enough that it deserves a mention. For starters, Brawlhalla is free, and can be accessed on PC and a variety of consoles. The game is also cross platform, meaning you can play with your friends regardless of what system they are using. The combat system is also pretty straightforward, and many of the characters share similar attack animations, which can make the game much more beginner friendly than Super Smash Bros.
The game is also incredibly popular in Createch at the Arlington Hills Community Center, so if you are interested in playing a few games, you are sure to find a worthy opponent there!
Available on: PC (Windows, macOS), Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
A free-to-play online battle royale shooter game that takes place in a sci-fi fantasy world, like Overwatch but free! Players chose between various types of champions (e.g. flank, damage, support, & front line and game modes (i.e. deathmatch, onslaught, siege, etc.) and play friends or strangers online.
Available on: PC (Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
One of the most famous fighting games in the world, Super Smash Bros. is all about having fun and playing your way. With nearly 100 different characters from Nintendo and other famous video game franchises, and many different modes and rulesets to work with, Super Smash Bros is truly a game that tries to appeal to everyone. The game is extremely multiplayer friendly, and has been known to make or break friendships. What other game can you hit your friend with a crazy fast hammer while they unleash their overpowered ultimate on you?
Available on: Nintendo consoles (Switch, Wii U, 3DS, Wii, GameCube, Nintendo 64)
The most popular anime in the world on your powerhouse console or handheld! If you a big fan of Naruto, you will love this fighting game as it starts from the Original Naruto to the end of Naruto Shippuden!
Available on: PlayStation consoles (PS4, PS3), Xbox consoles (Xbox One, Xbox 360), PC (Windows), Nintendo Switch
Dragonball Z is back to arcade mode in this hit smash 2D cell shaded fighter! Play your favorite charecters from Goku, Frieza and Vegeta! DragonBall fans unite!
Available on: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC (Windows), Nintendo Switch
Platformers
Platformers are all about jumping your way around various obstacles and enemies. The Super Mario series is probably the most famous example of this, but there are plenty of platformers out there to choose from!
recommended starter games:
The Super Mario franchise is pretty much the quintessential platformer series, so if you want to get a sense for the genre, these games are a great place to start.
Available on: Any Nintendo console (Switch, 3DS, etc.), mobile phone (iOS and Android)
This game is adorable, and every level is brimming with creativity and charm. There's a ton of variety in the settings and missions, from becoming a movie star for birds to taking down a cooking-obsessed mafia. The whole thing is just plain fun.
Available on: PC (Windows, MacOS), PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Looking for a challenge that's still accessible to new players? Celeste is known for its hard-but-fair gameplay, but the developers included an assist mode so players can customize certain aspects of the game to make it easier, like slowing time down to allow more time to react or giving your character an extra jump. The system is really well thought-out to make the game feel rewarding regardless of how you play it, and the entire game is just really well-executed as a whole.
Available on: PC (Windows, MacOS, Linux), Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Much like how Super Mario is often seen as the platformer series, Cave Story is widely regarded as the indie game. Famous for being made by just one person, Cave Story essentially kickstarted the success of modern indie games.
Available on: PC (Windows, MacOS X, Linux), Nintendo consoles (Switch, 3DS, Wii), PlayStation Portable
Puzzle Games
While puzzles do show up in other types of video games, puzzle games have it as the main focus. From logic to using game physics in creative ways, puzzle games put your thinking to the test.
recommended starter games:
In the Portal games, the puzzles revolve around, well, making portals and using them to teleport. You often have to think creatively and mess around with physics to get past the different challenges. Top that off with loads of dark humor, and you get a pretty distinctive experience.
Available on: PC (Windows, Mac OS X, Linux), PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Released exclusively for mobile phone, Monument Valley is a prime example of the phrase, "short and sweet." In this game, you take advantage of perspective tricks to manipulate the environment and allow your character to navigate through the level. Monument Valley is a very short game, but it's a polished and weirdly meditative experience.
Available on: Mobile (iOS, Android)
This game is mind-bending even by puzzle game standards. In Baba is You, the puzzle rules themselves are blocks that you can push around and manipulate, meaning that you're constantly changing the way the game works. Just be warned that this game will melt your brain at some point or another.
Available on: PC (Windows, macOS, Linux) Nintendo Switch
This reminds me of a puzzle series... The Professor Layton games follow the titular puzzle-obsessed Professor Layton and his puzzle-obsessed apprentice Luke as they solve mysteries in various puzzle-obsessed locales. The gameplay is a combination of exploration, character interaction, and - you guessed it - solving puzzles. The series will probably leave you wondering why everyone is so obsessed with the dang things, but it's a fun way to frame brain-teasers, and you can expect some wild twists to keep you entertained along the way.
Available on: Nintendo consoles (3DS, DS, Switch), mobile (iOS, Android)
Role-Playing Games
Role-playing games, or RPGs, usually have a large emphasis on story and world-building. In a typical RPG, you gradually build your character's stats, growing stronger as you make your way through the story. A lot of RPGs emphasize strategy over reaction time or physical coordination, though there are some exceptions.
Recommended starter games:
This game got a lot of hype a few years back, but it really does deserve the praise. A lot of the game revolves around the choices you make, as you're given the option to resolve various encounters either peacefully or by force. Overall, Undertale does a great job at making you empathize with its various colorful characters. Plus, the soundtrack has a lot of bangers.
Available on: PC (Windows, MacOS X, Linux), Nintendo Switch, PlayStation consoles (PS4, PS Vita)
A series you have probably heard of, and for good reason! Pokemon is all about catching, training, and battling monsters in an effort to be the best there ever was! In this RPG, you go from town to town, taking on gyms and completing the pokedex, using a fully customizable team of Pokemon. The combinations are endless! From its humble beginnings in the mid 90s, Pokemon has grown into a worldwide phenomenon with millions of avid fans. Virtually exclusive to Nintendo consoles, Pokemon can be a bit tricky to get into. Fortunately Pokemon GO is free on mobile devices, and can be a really great way to get into the series. Plus, there are many Pokestops and gyms on the East Side!
Available on: Nintendo consoles (3DS, DS, Switch), mobile (iOS, Android)
These games have a lot of adventures! You can play Co-op with your friends side by side playing characters that relies on friendship in a deep enriching story!
Available on: Nintendo consoles (Switch, 3DS, DS, Wii, GameCube), PlayStation consoles (PS4, PS3, PS2, PS Vita, PSP), Xbox consoles (Xbox One, Xbox 360), PC (Windows), mobile (iOS, Android)
In Bastion, your character wakes up after some unknown catastrophe and is tasked with building up a refuge for the remaining survivors. As you explore and fight your way through various floating worlds in search of materials, a smooth-voiced narrator comments on your actions and provides bits of plot information. It's a really unique method of storytelling that takes full advantage of the interactive medium.
Available on: PC (Windows, Mac OS X, Linux), Nintendo Switch, PlayStation consoles (PS4, PS Vita), Xbox consoles (Xbox One, Xbox 360), mobile (iOS)
Simulation Games
If you want a laid-back, relaxed game experience, you've come to the right genre! Simulation games are exactly what the title implies - they simulate some aspect of real life within a game environment. This can range anywhere from building and managing a virtual city, to running a theme park, to living a virtual life and more!
Recommended starter games:
Playing an Animal Crossing game is kind of like the virtual equivalent of chilling under a warm, cozy blanket. Befriend your cute cartoon animal neighbors, go fishing, catch bugs, hunt for shells and fossils, plant trees and flowers, buy and design clothes and accessories for you character, decorate your home, and interact with other players online, but most importantly, kick back and relax!
Available on: Nintendo consoles (Switch, 3DS, DS, Wii U, Wii, GameCube), mobile (iOS, Android)
In this series, you create and manage the lives of virtual people called, well, Sims. Some players play out an idyllic dream life, while others just let it devolve into pure chaos. It's up to you!
Available on: PC (Windows, macOS), PlayStation consoles (PS4, PS3, PS2), Xbox consoles (Xbox One, Xbox 360, Xbox), Nintendo consoles (3DS, DS, Wii, GameCube), mobile (iOS, Android)
This is another cozy one. Stardew Valley is great for relieving stress - you can just chill out, build relationships with the game's characters, and do some farming.
Available on: PC (Windows, macOS, Linux), Nintendo Switch, PlayStation consoles (PS4, PS Vita), Xbox One, mobile (iOS, Android)
Zoo Tycoon takes pet simulation to the next level. It is a park/animal caring simulator, where you either can create your own free form park or follow a series of increasingly difficult challenges.
Available on: PC (Windows, macOS), Xbox consoles (Xbox One, Xbox 360)
Sports Games
Ever dreamed of being a professional athlete? With sports games, that dream can come true! Play as your favorite team or player and use your skills to beat your opponent! There are many different types of sports games that fit a variety of interests
recommended starter games:
The most popular football video game, Madden has been around for 32 years, with the first game published in 1988. The most current title in the series is Madden NFL 20, which features the most up to date NFL rosters. You can either play a head-to-head matchup using your favorite team in play now mode, or you can take on the role of a quarterback working their way up to the NFL in career mode.
Available on: PC (Windows), PS4, Xbox One
The NBA 2K series, like Madden, has been around for quite a while. If you are a fan or basketball, you will be sure to enjoy this one. Drain 3s as Steph Curry, or take it to the house as Giannis; this game has everything you need to play the game like your favorite NBA pros. The newest version of the game also includes WNBA teams for the first time, so if you are a fan of the Minnesota Lynx be sure to check it out!
Available on: PC (Windows), PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Google Stadia
It's no secret that Soccer ( or Football as its known to everyone else :)) is the most popular sport in the world. FIFA 20, the newest installment in the series, really demonstrates why that is the case. Take control of a professional or national team from around the world in a traditional game, or try out the new VOLTA mode, modeled after street versions of the game. FIFA also has an incredibly strong esports scene, and you never know, you could be the next champion.
Available on: PC (Windows), PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
In Rocket League, you play soccer with rocket-powered cars. That's it, that's our pitch for it. It's one of those games that has plenty to offer for both casual and competitive players, and there's even a strong esports scene.
Available on: PC (Windows), Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4
Survival/Sandbox Games
Survival and sandbox games set you down in a big, open world, leaving you to start gathering resources and craft whatever tools and shelter you need to survive or allow you or give you all the resources needed and leave the construction to you. They tend to be less linear and rigidly structured than many other types of games, letting you set the pace and pursue your own objectives.
Recommended starter games:
Look, it was inevitable that we'd recommend this game. Minecraft is the best-selling video game of all time, and its impact on pop culture and the game industry as a whole is huge.
Available on: PC (Windows, MacOS, Linux), PlayStation consoles (PS4, PS3, PS Vita), Xbox consoles (Xbox One, Xbox 360), Nintendo consoles (Switch, New 3DS, Wii U), mobile phone (iOS, Android)
Terraria is often described as a 2D Minecraft, what with the open, randomly generated worlds, as well as the building, crafting, and mining elements. That being said, Terraria also features a strong emphasis on exploration. Playing with friends is recommended!
Available on: PC (Windows, macOS, Linux), PlayStation consoles (PS4, PS3), Xbox consoles (Xbox One, Xbox 360), mobile phone (iOS, Android), Nintendo consoles (Switch, 3DS, Wii U)
No Man's Sky is a game about exploration and survival in an infinite procedurally generated universe. Inspired by the adventure and imagination that we love from classic science-fiction, No Man's Sky presents you with a galaxy to explore, filled with unique planets and lifeforms, and constant danger and action, you'll discover places and creatures that no other players have seen before - and perhaps never will again.
Available on: (Windows & macOS), PS4, Xbox One.
Oxygen Not Included is a survival game... in space! You build and manage a space colony, and things can get rather frantic between managing oxygen, heating, food, morale, and more.
Available on: PC (Windows, macOS, Linux)
60 Seconds is a dark comedy game where you play as a family from the 1960s. A nuclear bomb is coming and you have 60 seconds to gather a small collection of items(and family members) from your home into your bunker. After you've escaped into safety, the game progresses with randomized events where you either are rescued or perish. With numerous endings or odd situations you can end up in, 60 Seconds is highly replayable.
Available on: PC (Windows, & mac OS)