Video games can be played on a number of different platforms. This includes game consoles, handheld systems, computers, mobile phones, and others.

The first coin operated video games were introduced in the 1970’s with titles such as ‘Computer Space’ and ‘Pong’ gaining popularity.

Popular game consoles that dominate current markets include the Nintendo Wii, Microsoft Xbox 360 and Sony Playstation 3. The three companies are battling to gain the attention of gamers in the competitive gaming industry.

Often seen as an industry leader and innovator, Nintendo have helped grow the video games industry beyond just hardcore gamers thank to games such as Nintendogs, Brain Training and Wii Sports, titles that take advantage of Nintendo’s unique gaming platforms and appeal to casual gamers.

In the past the primary input for video games has been the handheld controller, this has changed recently as game makers look to capture new audiences with new interactive input devices. Examples of this include cameras which respond to user movement, guitars, microphones, touch screens, motion sensitive controllers and more.

Video game genres are wide and varied. Examples of popular genres include action adventure, strategy, role playing, sports, racing, simulation and puzzle.

Making video games has become big business and creating a high quality game often takes the input of a large number of game developers for the game to be successful. As well as a high number of graphic designers and programmers, other skills such as management, writing and music are also important to the final product.

With the rise of the Internet gaming has seen a strong growth in the field of multiplayer games. While this previously was limited to playing with someone in the same location, it now includes people interacting with each other who are in different cities, countries or even living on opposite sides of the globe.

A popular example of multiplayer gaming can be seen in massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPG). These games enable large numbers of players to interact in the same virtual world, creating fictional characters, living virtual lives and experiencing the challenges and quests that various MMORPG games offer. A good example of this type of gaming can be seen in the popularity of World of Warcraft (WoW), this game has become immensely popular and currently has over 10 million paying subscribers.

Depending on your view point, video games can be seen as in both a positive and negative light. While users can be entertained as they improve hand eye coordination, problem solving skills and other abilities there is also research of extended gaming limiting children’s physical activity and an overexposure to violence at a young age.