The Weird and Confusing World of Video Game Genres

TLDRVideo game genres are often misunderstood and their definitions can be confusing. Genres like Soulslike, Roguelike, and Metroidvania have expanded over time and include games that don't fit the original criteria. The Adventure genre is named after 1976's Colossal Cave Adventure. The use of genres helps us communicate and understand games, but their definitions can be subjective.

Key insights

🎮Video game genres are often broad and can encompass a wide range of games.

🤔Genres like Soulslike, Roguelike, and Metroidvania have expanded to include games that may not fit the original criteria.

🔍The Adventure genre is named after 1976's Colossal Cave Adventure and has a specific definition.

📚The use of genres helps us communicate and understand games, but their definitions can be subjective.

💡Genres are constantly evolving and new subgenres are created as games push the boundaries of traditional categories.

Q&A

What is the purpose of video game genres?

—Video game genres help us categorize and communicate about games, allowing players to easily find games that fit their preferences.

Why do some game genres have confusing definitions?

—Some game genres, like Soulslike and Metroidvania, have expanded over time to include games that deviate from the original criteria, leading to confusion.

What is a Soulslike game?

—A Soulslike game is a genre inspired by the gameplay mechanics and difficulty of the Souls series, featuring challenging combat and a dark fantasy setting.

What is a Roguelike game?

—A Roguelike game is a genre characterized by random level generation, permadeath, and turn-based gameplay, typically featuring dungeon exploration and challenging gameplay.

What is a Metroidvania game?

—A Metroidvania game is a genre that combines exploration, platforming, and non-linear progression, inspired by the gameplay of Metroid and Castlevania.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Video game genres can be misunderstood and their definitions can be confusing.

02:45Genres like Soulslike, Roguelike, and Metroidvania have expanded over time to include games that deviate from the original criteria.

05:50The Adventure genre is named after 1976's Colossal Cave Adventure and has a specific definition.

08:19The use of genres helps us communicate and understand games, but their definitions can be subjective.

11:33Genres are constantly evolving and new subgenres are created as games push the boundaries of traditional categories.

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