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When you're just starting out, it's best to stick with what you have available. Purchasing a console or upgrading your computer is a big expense, and it's best to get some experience under your belt so you know how to make the right decision. If you can, play some games on a friend's platform before you make the decision yourself. A computer (PC) can play a wide variety of games, but playing the latest and fanciest requires expensive hardware upgrades. Desktops are much better for gaming than laptops. A console (typically an Xbox, PlayStation, or Wii) is a cheaper option if you don't already have a computer, and requires no technical know-how at all to use. You'll have a much more limited selection of games, and every few years you'll need to buy the next generation console if you want to play new games. If you have neither of the above, you can play on a smart phone, tablet, or portable gaming device, or you can play real-world games described at the end of this section. There are many recommended games below, organized by the type of person they appeal to. You probably already have a good idea what sort of experience you like, even if you're not much of a gamer yet, so skim through and start with the recommendation that sounds most appealing to you. A quick online search will often lead you to the developer's website where you can download or order the game, and where you can find out which devices the game can be played on. If you're not sure whether to buy it, search for a demo or a YouTube play through to find out more. For computer games, download the free software Steam. This is a hugely popular place to buy games, and the constant discount deals and community discussions are a great way to find new recommendations as well. Most of the recommendations below were released in the last few years, and may still be available at brick-and-mortar game shops. These are great for passing the time or taking your mind off stress, and are typically easy to learn. This category is loosely defined, and sometimes insulted by people who consider themselves "real gamers." However, that attitude is becoming less common. Try looking in the following places if you've never played a game all the way through before, or if you're not sure what appeals to you: For a huge variety of options, try a mobile app store, or a large game collection website like Kongregate and Armor Games. Most Nintendo games are designed to focus on fun and enjoying yourself with friends, including Mario Kart, Wii Sports, or Mario Party. If you enjoy fast finger movements and fast-paced challenges, there are many game genres you might enjoy: Platformers involve navigating an obstacle course of blocks and enemies. Play the classic Super Mario, challenge yourself with Super Meat Boy, or add story and fighting with the Ratchet & Clank series. For pure, fast-paced finger-tapping, try a rhythm game like Dance Dance Revolution or its keyboard version Step Mania, or a shoot 'em up ("shmup") like Ikaruga or Radiant Silvergun. Sports games are typically re-released each year so you can play as famous athletes. Pick your favorite sport and you can probably find a video game version, such as Madden or FIFA. Fighting games like Super Smash Bros. or Guilty Gear are competitive games that reward reflexes and muscle memory. Just like a real sandbox, these games give you tools you can use to create your own fun, or even your own world. If you're good at setting your own goals and getting pulled into your own project, these could be for you. Minecraft is by far the most popular of these games. If you're looking for something with less blocky graphics, try Spore. Sandbox games don't have to be "casual." Dwarf Fortress has sent thousands of "hardcore gamers" running due to its incredibly complex world, displayed entirely in text. Dim the lights and get ready for your adrenaline rush. These games are for people who want maximum excitement: If you love action or adventure stories, play the hero in games like Prince of Persia or Assassin's Creed, or the famous (and family-friendly) Legend of Zelda game. If you enjoy horror films, find out what it's like to be in one with Silent Hill or Resident Evil. When you just need to let it all out, pick up Saint's Row or Grand Theft Auto and embark on a ridiculous crime spree. Games can immerse you in a story in a way that no other art form can. Role-playing games (RPGs) are a popular example, although the genre is extremely broad. Here are a few famous examples, any one of which can provide dozens of hours of gameplay: A few of the most famous RPG series that focus on story and player choice include Dragon Age, Mass Effect, and Final Fantasy. Unusual, strange settings are shown off in the Bioshock and Dark Souls series, while the Elder Scrolls series gives you an enormous, classic fantasy world to explore. On the extreme end of the scale, games that have incredibly in-depth stories include Planescape: Torment, and every game from Spiderweb Software. Many games have the option to play competitively, but some of them are dedicated to testing skill as much as possible. The following genres have so much complexity that many gamers choose one and play it almost exclusively, training to become better over dozens or hundreds of hours: First-person shooters (FPS's) are mostly known for their online multiplayer modes, in which players compete as enemy soldiers fighting in a complex environment. Call of Duty and Battlefield are good introductions to the genre. Multi-player online battle arenas (MOBAs) are team-versus-team games, usually with a fantasy theme. Compares to FPS's, overall strategy is more important and short-term reflexes and tactics somewhat less so. Try Defense of the Ancients (DoTA) and League of Legends (LoL). Real time strategy games (RTS's) involve clashing civilizations, building cities and armies and waging all-out war with your opponents. Starcraft is focused on extremely rapid decision-making, while the Total War series is on the other side of the spectrum, emphasizing long-term strategy and careful tactical planning. Massively multiplayer role-playing games (MMORPGs or MMOs) have you play with hundreds of other players. You've likely heard of World of Warcraft, but also consider Star Wars: The Old Republic or Guild Wars 2. Not every gamer plays video games. While most mass-market board games don't develop a following in gamer circles, there are exceptions. Some of these even have major tournaments with cash prizes: Famous, deeply strategic board games such as Settlers of Catan or Dominion are easy enough to play with non-gamer friends, but can require hundreds of hours to master. Tabletop role-playing games such as Dungeons and Dragons or Pathfinder let you tell a story with your friends. Collectible card games (CCGs or TCGs) such as Magic: the Gathering or Yu-Gi-Oh! let you combine hundreds of pieces to let you play the style of game you most enjoy. These tend to be more expensive compared to other gaming hobbies, but your local game store may run cheap events for new players.
Decide what to play games on. Know how to find games. Browse casual games. Try games that require reflexes and precision. Explore sandbox games. Play for thrills. Play an immersive role-playing game. Play competitive multiplayer games. Play without a computer or console.