The article “Video Games” is written by an outstanding scientist and doctor of sciences. It covers all aspects of video games, their history, how they work, and their impact on society.
A video game is an electronic game that interacts with a user input device to generate visual feedback on a display device such as a TV screen or computer monitor. The electronic components in a video game console interact with software to produce the desired effect. The first commercial video game console was the Magnavox Odyssey, released in 1972.
Video games are now widely available and popular among all age groups. They are played both online and offline, on dedicated gaming consoles, personal computers, mobile phones, and other devices. Video games have become an increasingly important part of the entertainment industry, with revenues exceeding $100 billion annually in 2018.
There are many different genres of video games, each with its own gameplay mechanics and objectives. Some popular genres include action-adventure, role-playing, first-person shooter (FPS), simulation, strategy, and sports games. There are also educational video games that can help children learn new skills or facts.
Most video games require some level of interaction between the player and the game itself in order to progress through the game’s content. This interaction can take many forms depending on the type of game being played. For example; in FPS games players will typically use firearms or other weapons to battle enemies within the game’s virtual world; while in simulation games players may need to perform tasks such as flying a plane or driving a car within the bounds of the simulated environment . Players may also be required to solve puzzles or complete challenges set within the game in order to progress further . In recent years , there has been an increase in so-called “casual” or “social” video games that place less emphasis on traditional gameplay mechanics and instead focus more on providing players with opportunities for social interaction within the confines of the game . These types of videos are typically designed for shorter play sessions and can be played either solo or with friends . Many popular mobile phone apps such as Candy Crush , Words With Friends , Angry Birds , etc., would fall into this category .
While most people play video games for entertainment purposes , there is growing evidence that some people develop problematic patterns of behavior related to their gaming habits . This condition , known as “internet gaming disorder” (IGD) is characterized by impaired control over gaming impulses , preoccupation with gaming activities , continuation/escalation despite negative consequences , etc . IGD can lead to significant impairment in one’s ability to function socially , at work/school , or in other important domains . Although still not formally recognized as a diagnosis by major psychiatric manuals (e .g., DSM – 5 ), research suggests that IGD is a real phenomenon that merits further scientific study .