Types of Computer Games – JSS3 Physical & Health Education Lesson Note (First Term)

Computer games are electronic games played on a personal computer, mobile phone or video game console. They are classified into genres, including first-person shooters, third-person shooters, role-playing games, simulation games and strategy games. Playing them can improve problem-solving, planning and organisational skills, and teach resourcefulness.

Behavioural objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

• explain what computer games are;
• list five types of computer games;
• describe each type and give examples;
• state some benefits of computer games.

What are computer games?

Computer games are electronic games played on a personal computer, mobile phone or video game console. They are often categorised as mind sports.

The first commercial computer game, created in 1958, was a tic-tac-toe game for the IBM 704. Commercial gaming did not begin until the 1970s with the release of Space War and Computer Space by Atari. Early examples of strategy video games include Star Trek, Empire and Galactic Patrol. The history of computer games is often seen as beginning with Zork, published in 1976.

What are the types of computer games?

Today, computer games are a global industry worth billions of dollars. They are played by people of all ages and from all cultures. Many games are designed for specific age groups.

Computer games are classified into several genres. The most popular ones include:

1. First-person shooters (FPS): These games put the player in the shoes of the protagonist, who has to shoot enemies and complete missions. Examples of FPS games include Halo, Call of Duty and Counter-Strike.
2. Third-person shooters (TPS): These games are similar to FPS games, but the player controls the character from a third-person perspective. Examples of TPS games include Gears of War and Tomb Raider.
3. Role-playing games (RPG): In these games, the player takes on the role of a character in a virtual world and goes on adventures. The objectives vary from game to game, but typically involve completing quests and defeating enemies. Examples of RPG games include World of Warcraft and The Elder Scrolls.
4. Simulation games: These games aim to simulate real-world situations. They can be anything from business simulations to city-building games. Examples of simulation games include The Sims, SimCity and RollerCoaster Tycoon.
5. Strategy games: In these games, the player has to make decisions that will affect the outcome of the game. They can be real-time or turn-based. Examples of strategy games include Civilization, Warcraft and StarCraft.

What are the benefits of computer games?

1. Improves problem-solving skills: Computer games help improve problem-solving skills by providing a fun and stimulating environment in which players have to think quickly and strategically to progress.
2. Develops planning and organisational skills: Players have to plan their moves carefully and organise their thoughts in order to succeed.
3. Teaches resourcefulness: In many games, players have to be resourceful in order to make the most of limited resources. This can teach players how to be more efficient and effective in real-life situations.
4. Increases creativity:

Evaluation

1. What are computer games?
2. List the five types of computer games in this lesson.
3. How does a third-person shooter differ from a first-person shooter?
4. Give two examples of simulation games.
5. State three benefits of computer games.

Assignment

Choose any two types of computer games. For each one, state what it is and give two examples. Then explain two benefits of playing computer games.