By Sarah Diamond from NYT Times Insider
The naming of gaming and its history is an interesting and complex subject. The term "gaming" itself has evolved over time and can refer to various forms of interactive entertainment. Let's take a brief look at the history and naming of gaming.
Early Days: In the early days of electronic gaming, the term "video game" was commonly used. This term originated in the 1970s and referred to games played on arcade machines or early home consoles like the Atari 2600. The focus was on the visual display and interactive nature of these electronic games.
Computer Games:
As personal computers became more accessible in the 1980s, the term "computer games" gained popularity. These games were played on desktop or laptop computers and offered a wider range of experiences compared to early console games. The term "PC games" also emerged to specifically refer to games played on personal computers.
Console Games: With the rise of dedicated gaming consoles like the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and Sega Genesis in the 1980s and 1990s, the term "console games" gained prominence. This term distinguished games played on specific gaming hardware from those played on personal computers.
Digital Games and Online Gaming:
The advent of the internet and digital distribution platforms in the late 1990s and early 2000s brought about significant changes in gaming. The term "digital games" or simply "games" became more widely used to encompass all forms of interactive entertainment played on various devices, including consoles, computers, and mobile devices. Additionally, "online gaming" referred to multiplayer experiences that allowed players to connect and play with others over the internet.
Video Games and Esports:
As gaming continued to gain mainstream popularity, the term "video games" became more ubiquitous and widely understood. It encompasses all types of interactive entertainment, whether played on traditional gaming platforms or newer devices like smartphones and tablets. Esports, which refers to competitive gaming at a professional level, also emerged as a prominent term.
Gaming and Gamers:
In recent years, the general term "gaming" has become the go-to term for the broader gaming industry and community. It encompasses all forms of interactive entertainment, including video games, online games, mobile games, and more. Similarly, "gamers" refers to individuals who actively engage in playing games across various platforms.
It's important to note that the terminology and naming conventions continue to evolve alongside technological advancements and changes in the industry. New genres, platforms, and experiences constantly emerge, leading to the development of new terms and phrases to describe them. The naming of gaming reflects the ever-growing and diverse nature of the interactive entertainment landscape.