The Origin of Computer Games
Computer games are fundamentally the creative design, development, production and management of interactive digital objects (usually called games) with the objective of producing a specific state of play (a condition in which the player is actively involved and is therefore actively engaging with the game) and/or generating a desirable end state (a desired result). Computer games can be used for many different purposes, including educational, social, recreational and commercial purposes. Computer games can be written, computer-designed or computer-implemented; it does not matter. A game is a game, whether written or programmed.
Computer games come in all forms, from simple text games to complex and highly interactive 3D images and sounds. Games are generally designed for personal computers using the mainframe computer architecture of personal computers. Some examples of personal computer game software are Microsoft Flight Simulator, Digital Paintings Software, the Game Studio, Uno, Sound Forge, Video Magic, Play Station, X-Box, Usborne, Worldwind and WiX. A wide range of brands and manufacturers provide computer games and personal computer game software. Computer game software is usually sold as boxed sets or in a CD-ROM, with installation instructions. The majority of computer games are developed for use with Microsoft Windows operating systems, which are based on the Microsoft BASIC programming language.
PC games provide video games that require a joystick or gamepad for interaction. PC video games have two modes of operation: single-player mode and multi-player mode. PC video games also utilize dedicated hardware such as digital output/receiver cards, video cards, audio output/receivers, USB ports, and so forth. Some examples of popular computer games that utilize dedicated hardware are The Legend of Zelda, Sims Princess Crisis, Tetris, Super Mario Bros, Pac-Man, and others. There are also online game portals where one can play free online PC games.
Another major term used in relation to computer games is the action game. Action computer games generally involve driving, shooting, fighting etc. Some examples of action computer games are Modern Warfare, Manhunt, Task Force War, and overwatch. Other types of action computer games are racing, puzzle, and card games. Action computer games are quite popular among casual PC users and game lovers.
Computer games are categorized according to the type of content that is provided. There are various categories of computer games based on their themes, subjects, or target audiences. There are many games that have universal appeal and have the ability to attract players from all kinds of age groups. These games include adventure, sports, first person shooter, role playing, racing, RPG, strategy, virtual tabletop, and many more.
Apart from games, there are many other leisure activities related to the computer and Internet. Video games, electronic papers, digital cameras, LCD screens, and many other computer related items and gadgets are used for entertainment purposes. With the advancement of the Internet, online social networking sites and chat rooms have become the talk of the town. Computer games and Internet in general has a great potential to improve people’s lifestyle and quality of life.