Top 40 Video Game Genres: The Ultimate Guide (Have You Played Them All?)

As you jump, shoot, or type your way through the world of video games, you’ll notice that video game genres are loosely defined. And hey, arguing about how to classify your favorite games is a hallmark of fandom — so I’m all for it.

To help you win those debates, I’ve compiled this super authoritative list of video game genres. For each one, we’ll talk about what it is, what makes it special, and even a few tips to help you decide which ones to try next. I know there’s a perfect genre out there for everyone. Maybe this list will help you find yours!

So grab your controller, keyboard, or touchscreen, and get ready to explore the vast and varied landscape of video game genres.

Action RPG

Action RPGs have all the character development and storytelling of traditional role-playing games, but with an added twist: fast-paced, action-packed combat. These games require both strategic thinking and quick reflexes. Fans enjoy the deep narratives and character progression found in RPGs, along with the thrilling and intense action gameplay.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy a mix of strategy and action, love a good story, and want the freedom to shape your character’s skills and abilities.

Popular action RPG games

• Diablo (1996)
• Dark Souls (2011)
• The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011)
• The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015)
• NieR: Automata (2017)
• Monster Hunter: World (2018)
• Hades (2020)

Arcade Shooter

Arcade shooters are fast-paced games where the main objective is to shoot enemies and avoid obstacles. They mostly have simple controls, which makes them easy for anyone to pick up and play. Even decades after their heyday in the 1980’s, gamers still love arcade shooters’ quick, adrenaline-pumping gameplay that really tests their hand-eye coordination.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy rapid action, hand-eye coordination, colorful visuals, and competing for high scores.

Popular arcade shooters:

• Space Invaders (1978)
• Galaga (1981)
• Contra (1987)
• R-Type (1987)
• Ikaruga (2001)
• Geometry Wars (2003)
• Enter the Gungeon (2016)

Battle Royale

Battle royale games involve a large number of players fighting to be the last one standing. They often start with players parachuting onto a map, and then searching for weapons and other items to help them survive. Battle royales provide intense, high-stakes gameplay, and the thrill of outlasting all the other players.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy fast-paced multiplayer action, light strategy, and the thrill of competing against other players in large-scale battles.

Popular battle royale games:

• PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (2017)
• Fortnite Battle Royale (2017)
• Apex Legends (2019)
• Call of Duty: Warzone (2020)
• Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout (2020)

Beat ‘Em Up

Beat ’em up games (also called Brawlers) involve players fighting through waves of enemies, using hand-to-hand combat and various weapons. They often feature scrolling levels, and can be played solo or co-op with friends. This genre is unique because it balances satisfying combat mechanics with simple yet engaging gameplay.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy classic side-scrolling action, taking on hordes of enemies, and teaming up with friends to clear levels.

Popular beat ’em up games:

• Double Dragon (1987)
• Final Fight (1989)
• Streets of Rage (1991)
• Golden Axe (1989)
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time (1991)
• Castle Crashers (2008)
• Streets of Rage 4 (2020)

Block Breaker

Block breakers involve using a paddle and ball to break rows of blocks or bricks. The goal is to clear the screen of bricks, without losing all of your balls off the bottom of the screen. Block breakers offer addictive gameplay that challenges players’ reflexes and timing.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy simple yet engaging mechanics, and want a casual game experience that you can play in short bursts.

Popular block breaker games:

• Breakout (1976)
• Arkanoid (1986)
• Alleyway (1989)
• Shatter (2010)
• Wizorb (2011)
• Ricochet Infinity (2007)

Clicker

Clicker games (also called Idle or Incremental games) involve players performing simple actions, like clicking, to earn points. The points can then be spent on upgrades, which allow players to progress more quickly. This genre is pretty unique because it’s a low-stress, low-engagement game experience that can be enjoyed in short or long sessions.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy casual gaming, watching numbers grow, and the satisfaction of unlocking new upgrades.

Popular clicker games:

• Cookie Clicker (2013)
• Clicker Heroes (2014)
• Adventure Capitalist (2014)
• Tap Titans (2014)
• Realm Grinder (2015)
• Idle Miner Tycoon (2016)

Construction & Management

Construction and management games require designing, building, and maintaining assorted structures, cities, or businesses. Players must balance resources, and make strategic decisions to make sure their creations thrive. C*&M games encourage creativity and strategic thinking, while offering a satisfying sense of accomplishment.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy planning, building, and managing complex systems or projects, and seeing your creations come to life.

Popular construction and management games:

• SimCity (1989)
• RollerCoaster Tycoon (1999)
• Civilization V (2010)
• Cities: Skylines (2015)
• Factorio (2020)
• Planet Coaster (2016)

Dungeon Crawl

Dungeon crawls invite players to explore maze-like environments, usually filled with monsters, traps, and treasures. The objective is to delve deeper into the dungeon, defeat powerful enemies, and collect valuable loot. This genre is great because it combines exploration, combat, and character progression, serving up a satisfying sense of discovery and accomplishment.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy exploring dangerous environments, battling challenging enemies, and discovering hidden secrets.

Popular dungeon crawls:

• Rogue (1980)
• NetHack (1987)
• Diablo (1996)
• Legend of Grimrock (2012)
• Darkest Dungeon (2016)
• Dead Cells (2018)

Fighting

Fighting games feature one-on-one combat between characters with unique moves and abilities. Players must defeat opponents using strategy, reflexes, and knowledge of their character’s special moves. Fighting games are known for intense, competitive gameplay, and the chance to master a wide range of characters and moves.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy fast-paced, competitive action, mastering complex combos, and learning the intricacies of different characters.

Popular fighting games:

• Street Fighter II (1991)
• Mortal Kombat (1992)
• Tekken (1994)
• Super Smash Bros. (1999)
• Marvel vs. Capcom 2 (2000)
• Guilty Gear -STRIVE- (2021)

First-person Shooter

First-person shooters (FPS) are action games focusing on gun-based combat from a first-person perspective. This genre is extremely popular because it offers an immersive, fast-paced game experience that often requires “fast-twitch” reflexes and strategic thinking.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy intense action, realistic gunplay, and engaging in both single-player and multiplayer battles.

Popular first-person shooter games:

• Wolfenstein 3D (1992)
• Doom (1993)
• GoldenEye 007 (1997)
• Half-Life (1998)
• Halo: Combat Evolved (2001)
• Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare (2007)
• Overwatch (2016)

Graphic Adventure

Graphic adventures are narrative-driven games that focus on exploration, puzzle-solving, and character interactions. Players progress by making choices, solving puzzles, and discovering new story elements. This genre is fairly unique because it prioritizes storytelling and character development, instead of action and reflexes.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy immersive stories, memorable characters, and using your problem-solving skills to advance through the game.

Popular graphic adventure games:

• King’s Quest (1984)
• The Secret of Monkey Island (1990)
• Grim Fandango (1998)
• Syberia (2002)
• Life is Strange (2015)
• Firewatch (2016)
• Oxenfree (2016)

Hack n’ Slash

Hack n’ slash games involve players controlling a character that uses melee weapons to defeat hordes of enemies. These games usually emphasize fast-paced combat, flashy attack combos, and character progression. It combines satisfying, visceral combat with strategic decision-making and character development.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy intense action, fighting in fierce melee combat, and mastering powerful combos.

Popular hack n’ slash games:

• Golden Axe (1989)
• Devil May Cry (2001)
• God of War (2005)
• Bayonetta (2009)
• Darksiders (2010)
• Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance (2013)
• Nioh (2017)

Hero Shooter

Hero shooters are a sub-genre of multiplayer first-person or third-person shooters, and feature a diverse roster of characters with unique abilities. Players work together in teams to complete objectives or defeat the opposing team. Hero Shooters have become popular because they combine team-based strategy with the excitement of first-person or third-person shooter gameplay.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy team-based action, mastering a variety of character abilities, and competing in fast-paced multiplayer matches.

Popular hero shooter games:

• Team Fortress 2 (2007)
• Overwatch (2016)
• Paladins (2016)
• Valorant (2020)
• Apex Legends (2019)

Interactive Movie

Interactive movies are narrative-driven games that emphasize player choice and decision-making, usually using full-motion video or cinematic graphics. Players interact with the story by making choices that affect the plot and character relationships. This genre’s heyday was in the 1990s, when most computers couldn’t handle 3D interactive games. But people still love them today for the way they blur the line between gaming and film, providing a unique and immersive storytelling experience.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy engaging stories, making meaningful choices, and exploring branching narratives.

Popular interactive movie games:

• Dragon’s Lair (1983)
• Phantasmagoria (1995)
• Heavy Rain (2010)
• Until Dawn (2015)
• Detroit: Become Human (2018)
• Black Mirror: Bandersnatch (2018)

Japanese RPG (JRPG)

Japanese RPGs are a subgenre of role-playing games that, not surprisingly, originated in Japan. They usually feature turn-based combat, linear storylines, and a strong emphasis on character development and narrative. This genre has been popular for decades, because it combines elements of traditional RPGs with distinct art styles, memorable characters, and intricate stories that often explore philosophical themes.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy immersive stories, turn-based combat, and developing a deep connection to a cast of characters.

Popular Japanese RPG games:

• Final Fantasy VII (1997)
• Chrono Trigger (1995)
• Persona 5 (2016)
• Xenoblade Chronicles (2010)
• Dragon Quest XI (2017)
• NieR: Automata (2017)
• Octopath Traveler (2018)

Life Simulation

Life simulations offer players a chance to control and manage the lives of virtual characters or communities. They often emphasize social interaction, resource management, and personal development. Life sims are special because they offers a “sandbox” experience, allowing players to shape their virtual world and the lives of their characters however they see fit.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy creating and managing virtual worlds, making choices that impact your characters’ lives, and engaging in social interactions.

Popular life simulation games:

• The Sims (2000)
• Animal Crossing (2001)
• Tomodachi Life (2013)
• The Sims 4 (2014)
• Stardew Valley (2016)
• RimWorld (2018)

Light Gun Shooter

Light gun shooters are classic games that use a light-sensing controller to simulate the use of a gun. Players aim and shoot at targets displayed on the screen, usually from a first-person perspective. Light shooters aren’t as popular these days, but it’s too bad, because they offered a unique, immersive shooting experience, combining action and reflexes with physical interaction.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy nostalgic arcade action, testing your reflexes, and using a unique controller to simulate gunplay.

Popular light gun shooter games:

• Duck Hunt (1984)
• Virtua Cop (1994)
• Time Crisis (1995)
• House of the Dead (1996)
• Point Blank (1994)

Maze

Maze games involve navigating complex, maze-like environments while avoiding obstacles and enemies. The objective is usually to reach the end of the maze, or collect items within the maze. Maze games challenges players’ problem-solving skills, spatial awareness, and reflexes.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy solving puzzles, exploring intricate environments, and testing your navigational abilities.

Popular maze games:

• Pac-Man (1980)
• Ms. Pac-Man (1981)
• Bomberman (1983)
• Marble Madness (1984)
• Lode Runner (1983)

Metroidvania

Metroidvania games (named after a blend of the classic games “Metroid” and “Castlevania”) feature interconnected, non-linear environments. Players gain new abilities throughout the game, which let them access previously inaccessible areas. Metroidvanias combine exploration, combat, and character progression, with a rewarding sense of discovery.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy exploring expansive worlds, uncovering secrets, and gaining new abilities that change the way you interact with the game world.

Popular Metroidvania games:

• Super Metroid (1994)
• Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (1997)
• Hollow Knight (2017)
• Ori and the Blind Forest (2015)
• Axiom Verge (2015)
• Dead Cells (2018)

MMORPG

Massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) are the original “metaverse,” because they allow thousands of players to explore, interact, and cooperate in a shared virtual world. They often feature complex social systems, player-driven economies, and large-scale battles. MMORPGs offer an expansive, persistent world that evolves based on the actions of its players.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy exploring vast, interconnected worlds, working with other players in cooperative or competitive activities, and immersive, evolving storylines.

Popular MMORPG games:

• Ultima Online (1997)
• EverQuest (1999)
• World of Warcraft (2004)
• Guild Wars 2 (2012)
• Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn (2013)
• The Elder Scrolls Online (2014)
• Black Desert Online (2015)

MOBA

Multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) games involve two teams of players competing against each other in an arena. Each player controls a single character with unique abilities, working together to destroy the opposing team’s base. This wildly popular genre combines team-based strategy, fast-paced action, and deep character customization.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy competitive, team-based gameplay, mastering a variety of characters and abilities, and participating in strategic, high-stakes battles.

Popular MOBA games:

• Defense of the Ancients (2003, mod for Warcraft III)
• League of Legends (2009)
• Dota 2 (2013)
• Heroes of the Storm (2015)
• Smite (2014)

Music

Music games involve players interacting with on-screen prompts in time with a musical track. They use rhythm and timing as key gameplay mechanics, with players aiming to achieve high scores and perfect their musical performances. This genre is unique because it combines the joy of music with engaging, reflex-based gameplay. They can even make players feel as if they’re actually playing a real musical instrument.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy rhythm-based gameplay, interacting with a variety of musical styles, and testing your timing and reflexes.

Popular music games:

• Dance Dance Revolution (1998)
• Guitar Hero (2005)
• Rock Band (2007)
• Osu! (2007)
• Crypt of the NecroDancer (2015)
• Beat Saber (2018)

Open-world RPG

Open-world RPGs are role-playing games set in expansive, open environments that players can freely explore. These games are famous for their non-linear narratives, complex character progression systems, and plenty of side quests and activities. Their open-world nature offers an unparalleled sense of freedom, allowing players to shape their own stories and experiences.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy exploring vast, immersive worlds, deep character development, and dynamic, player-driven narratives.

Popular open-world RPG games:

• The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind (2002)
• Fallout 3 (2008)
• The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015)
• The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011)
• Horizon Zero Dawn (2017)
• Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018)

Platformer

Platformers involve guiding a character through a series of levels, and navigating obstacles and platforms to reach the end without dying. They emphasize precise movement, timing, and reflexes. People who love platformers like them for the diverse range of challenges and experiences, combining exploration, action, and puzzle-solving elements.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy overcoming obstacles, exploring colorful worlds, and testing your timing and reflexes.

Popular platformer games:

• Super Mario Bros. (1985)
• Sonic the Hedgehog (1991)
• Super Meat Boy (2010)
• Rayman Legends (2013)
• Shovel Knight (2014)
• Hollow Knight (2017)
• Celeste (2018)

Puzzle

Puzzle games involve players solving a variety of logic-based challenges. They usually emphasize critical thinking, pattern recognition, and problem-solving skills. This genre is beloved because it offers a satisfying sense of accomplishment, as players must use their intellect to overcome obstacles and complete levels.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy testing your cognitive skills, tackling mind-bending challenges, and using creative thinking to solve problems.

Popular puzzle games:

• Tetris (1984)
• Lemmings (1991)
• Portal (2007)
• Braid (2008)
• The Witness (2016)
• The Talos Principle (2014)

Racing

Racing games involve players competing in various types of races, by controlling vehicles like cars, motorcycles, or boats. They emphasize speed, skillful maneuvering, and mastering challenging courses. Racing games are exhilarating because they offer high-speed action, and a wide range of racing styles and environments.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy fast-paced gameplay, competing against others, and testing your reflexes and driving skills.

Popular racing games:

• Pole Position (1982)
• Super Mario Kart (1992)
• Gran Turismo (1997)
• Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit (1998)
• Forza Motorsport (2005)
• Burnout Paradise (2008)
• Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (2017)

Real-time Strategy

Real-time strategy (RTS) games involve players managing resources, constructing bases, and commanding armies in real-time. They require strategic thinking, high-stakes multitasking, and quick decision-making. RTS games are notable because they combine elements of both strategy and action, offering deep, tactical gameplay and fast-paced battles.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy cooking up new strategies, managing resources, and commanding armies in tense, real-time battles.

Popular real-time strategy games:

• Dune II (1992)
• Warcraft: Orcs & Humans (1994)
• Command & Conquer (1995)
• StarCraft (1998)
• Age of Empires II (1999)
• Company of Heroes (2006)
• StarCraft II (2010)

Real-time Tactics

Real-time tactics (RTT) games are a sub-genre of strategy games, but they focus on the more tactical aspects of controlling individual units in real-time. RTTs often involve smaller-scale battles and less resource management than RTS games. This genre is unique because it offers deep, tactical gameplay but with an emphasis on unit positioning and timing.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy strategic, real-time battles, commanding individual units, and focusing on tactics and positioning.

Popular real-time tactics games:

• Myth: The Fallen Lords (1997)
• Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six (1998)
• Company of Heroes (2006)
• Men of War (2009)
• Frozen Synapse (2011)
• Door Kickers (2014)
• Desperados III (2020)

Run ‘n’ Gun

Run ‘n’ gun games have players controlling a character who must run, jump, and shoot their way through levels filled with enemies and obstacles. They emphasize fast-paced action, skillful maneuvering, and precise shooting. This genre is exciting because it combines elements of platformers and shooters, offering intense, action-packed gameplay.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy fast-paced action, overcoming challenging obstacles, and fighting in frenzied combat.

Popular run ‘n’ gun games:

• Contra (1987)
• Metal Slug (1996)
• Gunstar Heroes (1993)
• Cuphead (2017)
• Broforce (2015)

Shoot ’em up

Shoot ’em up games (also called “Shmups”) require players to control a character or vehicle that navigates through levels while shooting wave after wave of enemies. These games call for fast reflexes, precise aiming, and quick pattern recognition. This genre stands out because it offers fast-paced, relentless action that tests players’ skills and endurance.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy intense action, mastering intricate enemy patterns, and testing your reflexes and shooting skills.

Popular shoot ’em up games:

• Space Invaders (1978)
• Galaga (1981)
• Gradius (1985)
• R-Type (1987)
• Ikaruga (2001)
• Jamestown: Legend of the Lost Colony (2011)
• Enter the Gungeon (2016)
• Resogun (2013)

Sports

Sports games simulate real-world sports, allowing players to control individual athletes or entire teams. They emphasize skillful play, strategy, and mastery of the sport’s rules and mechanics. Sports games are different from many other genres because they offer a wide range of experiences, from realistic simulations to arcade-style action — all centered around popular sports.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy engaging in competitive gameplay, mastering the mechanics of various sports, and participating in single-player and multiplayer experiences.

Popular sports games:

• Pong (1972)
• FIFA series (1993-present)
• NBA 2K series (1999-present)
• Madden NFL series (1988-present)
• Pro Evolution Soccer series (2001-present)
• Rocket League (2015)
• Wii Sports (2006)

Stealth

Stealth games ask players to achieve objectives using tactics like hiding, sneaking, and avoiding enemy detection. They emphasize strategy, patience, and careful planning. Stealth games are great because they offer a unique, tension-filled experience that rewards players for their cunning and thinking on their feet.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy using strategy and tactics to outwit enemies, avoiding direct confrontations, and carefully planning your actions.

Popular stealth games:

• Metal Gear Solid (1998)
• Thief: The Dark Project (1998)
• Splinter Cell (2002)
• Hitman: Codename 47 (2000)
• Dishonored (2012)
• Assassin’s Creed series (2007-present)

Survival Horror

Survival horror games immerse players in tense, frightening environments, while managing limited resources and battling or avoiding monstrous enemies. They go heavy on atmosphere, story, and psychological horror. Players have a love/hate relationship with Horror games because they offer an intense, immersive experience that challenges players both physically and mentally.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy being immersed in creepy, atmospheric settings, managing limited resources, and facing terrifying enemies.

Popular survival horror games:

• Resident Evil (1996)
• Silent Hill (1999)
• Fatal Frame (2001)
• Dead Space (2008)
• Amnesia: The Dark Descent (2010)
• Outlast (2013)
• Resident Evil 7: Biohazard (2017)

Tactical RPG

Tactical role-playing games (Tactical RPGs) are a sub-genre of RPGs that emphasize turn-based, grid-based combat and character progression. These games feature complex strategies, unit positioning, and character development. Many people find them engaging because they combine deep, tactical gameplay with RPG elements like character growth and storylines.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy devising strategies, managing a diverse group of characters, and operating turn-based, tactical combat.

Popular tactical RPG games:

• Fire Emblem series (1990-present)
• Final Fantasy Tactics (1997)
• Tactics Ogre (1995)
• Disgaea series (2003-present)
• XCOM: Enemy Unknown (2012)
• Banner Saga series (2014-present)

Tactical Shooter

Tactical shooters go heavy on realism, teamwork, and strategy. They require players to carefully plan their actions, use cover effectively, and work together to achieve objectives. Compared to traditional shooters, these ones offer a slower, more methodical experience, rewarding players for their teamwork and tactics.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy working together with other players, using strategy and tactics in combat, and realistic, immersive gameplay.

Popular tactical shooter games:

• Rainbow Six series (1998-present)
• Ghost Recon series (2001-present)
• SWAT 4 (2005)
• ARMA series (2006-present)
• Insurgency (2014)
• Insurgency: Sandstorm (2018)
• Escape from Tarkov (2017, Early Access)

Text Adventure

One of the earliest genres of games, text adventures involve players navigating through a story by typing text commands. They may not have any graphics, but they offer plenty of exploration, puzzle-solving, and narrative. People still play them today due to their nostalgic, text-based experience that relies heavily on the player’s imagination and problem-solving skills.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy immersing yourself in rich, interactive narratives, solving puzzles through text commands, and using your imagination to create vivid mental images.

Popular text adventure games:

• Colossal Cave Adventure (1976)
• Zork (1980)
• The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (1984)
• A Mind Forever Voyaging (1985)
• Anchorhead (1998)
• 80 Days (2014)

Third-person Action-adventure

Third-person action-adventure games have players controlling a character from a third-person perspective, engaging in a mix of exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving. They usually feature cinematic storytelling, rich environments, and varied gameplay mechanics. This genre is beloved because it combines elements of action, adventure, and narrative into a single, immersive experience.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy exploring detailed worlds, engaging in action-packed combat, and cinematic stories.

Popular third-person action-adventure games:

• Tomb Raider (1996)
• The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998)
• Uncharted series (2007-present)
• Batman: Arkham series (2009-2015)
• The Last of Us (2013)
• God of War (2018)

Turn-based Strategy

Turn-based strategy games see players taking turns to make decisions, move units, and engage in turn-based combat. They reward players who succeed at planning, resource management, and long-term strategy. This genre has a big following because it offers deep, tactical gameplay with a more deliberate, thoughtful pace compared to real-time strategy games.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy coming up with long-term strategies, managing resources and units, and engaging in turn-based combat.

Popular turn-based strategy games:

• Civilization series (1991-present)
• X-COM: UFO Defense (1994)
• Heroes of Might and Magic series (1995-present)
• Advance Wars (2001)
• Endless Legend (2014)
• Into the Breach (2018)

Vehicle Sim

Vehicle simulation games involve players controlling realistic vehicles, like cars, planes, or boats, in various scenarios. These games usually try to be as realistic as possible — including accurate physics, realistic controls, and great attention to detail. It might be small compared to other genres, but it has a dedicated player base due to its authentic, immersive experience that allows players to explore the intricacies of operating different vehicles.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy mastering realistic vehicle controls, tackling various driving scenarios, and detailed, accurate simulations.

Popular vehicle simulation games:

• Microsoft Flight Simulator series (1982-present)
• Euro Truck Simulator 2 (2012)
• Assetto Corsa (2014)
• Elite Dangerous (2014)
• American Truck Simulator (2016)
• BeamNG.drive (2015, Early Access)

Walking Simulator

Walking simulator games (also called Exploration or Narrative games), have players exploring environments and uncovering stories through exploration, interaction, and observation. Their core is around narrative, atmosphere, and minimal gameplay mechanics. Walking sims are special because they offers a slower, more contemplative experience that focuses on storytelling and immersion.

You might like this genre if… You enjoy immersive storytelling, exploring detailed environments, and engaging in a more contemplative play experience.

Popular walking simulator games:

• Dear Esther (2012)
• Gone Home (2013)
• Firewatch (2016)
• Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture (2015)
• What Remains of Edith Finch (2017)
• Tacoma (2017)
• The Vanishing of Ethan Carter (2014)

Yep, that’s all of them

There you have it — all video game genres from Action RPG to Walking Sim, and everything in between. I’m pretty sure that’s all of them. It has to be… right?

Wait, what’s that you’re saying? You think I’ve missed something? Hmm. Well, leave your argument in the comments section below, and we’ll have a good old-fashioned genre-bending debate about it.

Also check out my Periodic Table of Video Games! It’s a full-size, colorful poster featuring these 40 genres and the top classic games in each one. There’s also a free download if you want to see it on your desktop. Enjoy!