Episode 131 What is a Game?
Hi and welcome to Experience Points by University XP. On Experience Points, we explore different ways we can learn from games. I’m your host Dave Eng from games-based learning by University XP. Find out more at www.universityxp.com
In this episode we’ll explore a fundamental yet complex question. What exactly is a game?
From the nostalgic first games we played as kids to the immersive experiences we dive into today, games have always been a source of joy, challenge, and connection. But defining what a game truly is? That’s a whole different challenge.
In this episode, we’ll tackle that question head-on. We’ll explore the philosophies, definitions, and key characteristics that make games so unique. Whether you’re a designer, a player, or just someone curious about the deeper meaning of games, this episode is for you.
So, let’s begin with the basics with the question: what is a game? Most accepted definitions include a structured activity or form of play that players voluntarily engage in, often for entertainment or enjoyment. Games typically have goals, roles, and challenges, and they can involve one or more players.
But that’s just the beginning. Games come in many forms—sports, board games, card games, video games, even mobile games. At their core, they’re structured activities where players pursue outcomes while following rules and navigating challenges.
One fascinating definition comes from Bernard Suits, who described gameplay as the “voluntary attempt to overcome unnecessary obstacles.”
Think about it—when you play a game, you’re choosing to follow its rules, even if those rules make achieving your goal more challenging. It’s a choice that defines the magic of play.
Throughout history, many thinkers have tried to pin down the essence of games. Let’s take a look at a few of their perspectives:
Roger Caillois defined games as fun, uncertain, and governed by rules.
Sid Meier, the mind behind many iconic video games, saw games as “a series of interesting decisions.”
Jesse Schell, a game design visionary, described games as problem-solving activities approached with a playful attitude.
Whereas, Keith Burgun focused on competition, saying games are about making ambiguous yet meaningful decisions.
And Tracy Fullerton highlighted structured conflict, noting that games often end with unequal outcomes for players.
These definitions emphasize different aspects of games—fun, problem-solving, meaningful choices, and structured competition. Together, they give us a multifaceted view of what games are and why we’re drawn to them.
So, how can we define a game? Let’s break it down into four distinct characteristics:
Games as Structures for Interaction. Games provide a medium for interaction. Whether that happens between players, between players and the game, or both. Interaction is at the heart of all gameplay.
Games are Activities of Inefficient Means. Players must follow the rules, even if those rules create challenges that slow them down. It’s this inefficiency that makes games fun and engaging.
The Ludological Agreement. This is the “magic circle” of play and is when players consent to follow the rules and immerse themselves in the world of the game.
Unequal and Uncertain Outcomes. Games have winners and losers. Players can be victorious or defeated. This uncertainty adds tension and excitement to the player experience.
Let’s dive deeper into the concept of the “magic circle,” a term introduced by Johan Highzinga (Huizinga) in Homo Ludens. The magic circle is both a metaphorical and sometimes physical boundary that separates the game world from the real world.
Within this circle, players agree to follow the rules of the game. Their actions take on new meanings, governed by the constraints and goals of gameplay.
But the circle isn’t impermeable. For example, real-world actions—like negotiating or texting—can influence gameplay. Similarly, games like museum exhibits blur the lines between real and imagined worlds, creating unique immersive experiences.
Now, let’s shift gears. Games aren’t just for fun—they’re also art forms and powerful tools for learning.
In the realm of art, games can challenge players, evoke emotions, and even reflect philosophical ideas. Think of games as “expression machines,” where every choice and interaction contributes to a larger narrative or message.
Applied games, on the other hand, serve specific purposes like education, training, or skill development. Businesses, educators, and even the military use simulations and serious games to recreate scenarios, test strategies, and teach new concepts.
Finally, let’s talk about evolution. Games are constantly changing, influenced by new technologies, ideas, and player experiences.
Take the philosophies we discussed earlier They show how games can be reimagined over time. Whether it’s designing games for pure enjoyment, for storytelling, or for learning, every iteration pushes the boundaries of what a game can be.
As Bernard Suits suggested: perhaps every human activity is, in some way, a game. As these are pursuits governed by rules, fueled by goals, and driven by creativity.
And there you have it! My exploration of what makes a game. From their definitions and philosophies to their applications and evolution, games are far more than just entertainment. They’re a reflection of who we are, what we value, and how we connect with the world.
But one of the hardest and most difficult questions that can be asked about games is what they are and how they are defined. The answers, responses, and philosophies regarding these big questions are as diverse and varied as those who have sought to define them.
Therefore, this article will attempt another take on defining games and discussing their meaning and interaction for the people that play, define, apply, and share them.
A definition of games will be offered as well as different philosophies and interpretations of what games are. Specific game characteristics will be argued in this article which will be explored in greater depth in the following sections.
Games as models for interaction will be discussed as well as how choices, choice architecture, and decisions are offered to players through play. Games and rules are explored as a form and structure for players to follow, as well as how game players interact with each other and the game.
All of this is taken in context of the “magic circle” or the ludological agreement that players make when they decide to play a game. This includes the consent to accept different rules and behaviors that are condoned and accepted in the game; but may not necessarily be emulated in the real world. The result of these interactions within the magic circle are what shape the overall player experience.
This experience in the game is what is in-part shaped by the goals and challenges set by designers and players alike. Especially how the result of those frameworks creates separate and unequal outcomes for players.
Finally, this article will close out with some of the interpretations of games: such as games as pieces of art as well as applied games in simulations, serious games, and games-based learning. The results of which are examined in how players and designers can interpret games as an ever evolving medium.
I hope you found this episode useful. If you’d like to learn more, then a great place to start is with my free course on gamification. You can sign up for it at www.universityxp.com/gamification You can also get a full transcript of this episode including links to references in the description or show notes. Thanks for joining me! Again, I’m your host Dave Eng from games-based learning by University XP. On Experience Points we explore different ways we can learn from games. If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and subscribing. Subscribing is free and ensures that you’ll get the next episode of Experience Points delivered directly to you. I’d also love it if you took some time to rate the show! I live to lift others with learning. So, if you found this episode useful, consider sharing it with someone who could benefit. Also make sure to visit University XP online at www.universityxp.com University XP is also on Twitter @University_XP and on Facebook and LinkedIn as University XP. Also, feel free to email me anytime. My email address is dave@universityxp.com Game on!
Dave Eng, EdD
Principal
References
Albor, J. (2010, September 8). Player Autonomy and Games, part 1. Experience Points. https://www.experiencepoints.net/2010/08/player-autonomy-and-games-part-1.html
Batchelor, J. (2021, May 14). What is a game? GamesIndustry.biz. https://www.gamesindustry.biz/what-is-a-game
Bennett , C. (2020, April 9). What is the Magic Circle? |. Gdt.stanford.edu. https://gdt.stanford.edu/what-is-the-magic-circle/
Bond, J. G. (2014). Introduction to Game Design, Prototyping, and Development: From Concept to Playable Game with Unity and C. addison-wesley professional. https://www.informit.com/store/introduction-to-game-design-prototyping-and-development-9780134659862?w_ptgrevartcl=Basic+Theories+of+Game+Design_2819037
Caillois, R. (2001). Man, play, and games. University of Illinois press. https://voidnetwork.gr/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Man-Play-and-Games-by-Roger-Caillois.pdf
Caroux, L., Isbister, K., Le Bigot, L., & Vibert, N. (2015). Player–video game interaction: A systematic review of current concepts. Computers in human behavior, 48, 366-381. https://inria.hal.science/hal-01108083/file/Caroux_et_al-CHB-inPress-PrePrint.pdf
Compton, C. (2018, September 11). Welcome to the Magic Circle. Game Developer. https://www.gamedeveloper.com/design/welcome-to-the-magic-circle
Copier, M. (2005, June). Connecting Worlds. Fantasy Role-Playing Games, Ritual Acts and the Magic Circle. In DiGRA Conference. http://www.digra.org/wp-content/uploads/digital-library/06278.50594.pdf
Dennett, D. C. (2006). Higher-order truths about chmess. Topoi, 25, 39-41 https://www.researchgate.net/publication/225950069_Higher-Order_Truths_About_Chmess
Eng, D. (2016, March 04). Game Systems. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2016/3/4/whats-your-system
Eng, D. (2019, August 20). Play is Work. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2019/8/20/play-is-work
Eng, D. (2019, December 03). Core Loops. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2019/12/3/core-loops
Eng, D. (2019, December 10). Decision Space. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2019/12/10/decision-space
Eng, D. (2019, June 04). Formal Game Structures. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2019/6/04/formal-game-structures
Eng, D. (2019, June 18). Feedback Loops. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2019/6/18/feedback-loops-in-games-based-learning
Eng, D. (2019, November 12). Score Points. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2019/11/12/score-points
Eng, D. (2019, November 26). Abstraction in Games. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2019/11/26/abstraction-in-games
Eng, D. (2019, October 01). Flow State. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2019/10/1/flow-state
Eng, D. (2019, October 29). Gaming with Motivation. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2019/10/29/gaming-with-motivation
Eng, D. (2019, September 10). The Player Experience. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2019/9/10/the-player-experience
Eng, D. (2019, September 17). Player Interaction. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2019/9/17/player-interaction
Eng, D. (2020, April 09). What is a learning game? Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2020/4/9/what-is-a-learning-game
Eng, D. (2020, August 20). What is Player Agency? Retrieved April 2, 2024, from http://www.universityxp.com/blog/2020/8/20/what-is-player-agency
Eng, D. (2020, December 3). Game Mechanics for Learning. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from http://www.universityxp.com/blog/2020/12/3/game-mechanics-for-learning
Eng, D. (2020, February 20). Game Components. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2020/2/20/game-components
Eng, D. (2020, January 09). Socializing Games. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2020/1/9/socializing-games
Eng, D. (2020, January 16). How do I win? Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2020/1/16/how-do-i-win
Eng, D. (2020, January 24). Decisions for Us. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2020/1/24/decisions-for-us
Eng, D. (2020, July 30). What is the Lusory Attitude? Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2020/7/30/what-is-the-lusory-attitude
Eng, D. (2020, July 9). What is the Magic Circle? Retrieved April 2, 2024, from http://www.universityxp.com/blog/2020/7/9/what-is-the-magic-circle
Eng, D. (2020, June 18). What is player behavior? Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2020/6/18/what-is-player-behavior
Eng, D. (2020, March 26). What is Games-Based Learning? Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2020/3/26/what-is-games-based-learning
Eng, D. (2020, May 14). What is a simulation? Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2020/5/14/what-is-a-simulation
Eng, D. (2020, October 1). What makes a good rule book? Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2020/10/1/what-makes-a-good-rule-book
Eng, D. (2020, September 10). What is Intrinsic Motivation? Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2020/9/10/what-is-intrinsic-motivation
Eng, D. (2021, April 6). What is Grokking? Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2021/4/6/what-is-grokking
Eng, D. (2021, February 9). What is Self-Determination Theory? Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2021/2/9/what-is-self-determination-theory
Eng, D. (2021, November 23). How do players create meaning in games?. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2021/11/23/how-do-players-create-meaning-in-games
Eng, D. (2021, October 26). Applied Games-Based Learning. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2021/10/26/applied-games-based-learning
Eng, D. (2021, September 28). Playing serious games. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2021/9/28/playing-serious-games
Eng, D. (2022, December 6). What are Game Goals and Objectives?. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2022/12/6/what-are-game-goals-and-objectives
Eng, D. (2022, March 1). What is Player Reflection?. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2022/3/1/what-is-player-reflection
Eng, D. (2022, September 27). What is Strategy in Gameplay?. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2022/9/27/what-is-strategy-in-gameplay
Eng, D. (2023, April 11). Who are Tactics?. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2023/4/11/what-are-tactics
Eng, D. (2023, August 8). What is Game Literacy? Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2023/8/8/what-is-game-literacy
Eng, D. (2023, June 27). What is Choice Architecture? Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2023/6/27/what-is-choice-architecture
Eng, D. (2023, May 23). Liminality, Transition, and Games. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2023/5/23/liminality-transition-and-games/
Eng, D. (2023, October 17). What is Player Engagement? Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2023/10/17/what-is-player-engagement
Eng, D. (2024, January 16). What are Progression Systems in Games? Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2024/1/16/what-are-progression-systems-in-games
Huang, Y., & Ryall, E. (2017). On the relationship between philosophy and game-playing. In The philosophy of play as life (pp. 80-93). Routledge. https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.4324/9781315454139-7/relationship-philosophy-game-playing-yuanfan-huang-emily-ryall
Manninen, T. (2003). Interaction forms and communicative actions in multiplayer games. Game studies, 3(1), 2003. https://gamestudies.org/0301/manninen/
Molina, M. D., Bucca, M., & Macy, M. W. (2019). It’s not just how the game is played, it’s whether you win or lose. Science Advances, 5(7), eaau1156. https://www.science.org/doi/full/10.1126/sciadv.aau1156
Nieuwdorp, E. (2005, June). The Pervasive Interface; Tracing the Magic Circle. In DiGRA Conference. http://digra.org/wp-content/uploads/digital-library/06278.53356.pdf
Progresa. (2021, May 8). The Games We Play: Inequality and Asymmetric Information. Medium. https://progresaid.medium.com/the-games-we-play-inequality-and-asymmetric-information-798304ff664f
RCT AI. (2020, August 11). Research on Video Game Interactivity. Medium. https://rctai.medium.com/research-on-video-game-interactivity-460df8f42791
Shorkend, D. (2016). Games as Transformative. https://www.ijcrm.com/publish_article/edition-76/e760105.pdf
Stenros, J. (2017). The game definition game: A review. Games and culture, 12(6), 499-520. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1555412016655679
Suits, B. (1967). What is a Game?. Philosophy of science, 34(2), 148-156. https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/philosophy-of-science/article/abs/what-is-a-game/40F5E5452EDEEDC5EF5BADB99E2225FD
The Magic Circle. (2020, December 15). The Magic Circle. Gamification and Games-Based Approach to Cultural Heritage. https://cinegamification.com/introduction/the-magic-circle/
Tillman, M. D. (2023). Easy games are still games for Suits. Journal of the Philosophy of Sport, 50(3), 329-344. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00948705.2023.2257778
Tiltfactor. (2023). Tiltfactor | Multiple Forms of Interaction in Games. Tiltfactor. https://tiltfactor.org/multiple-forms-of-interaction-in-games/
Wixon, D. (2006). What is a game?. interactions, 13(2), 37-ff. https://dl.acm.org/doi/fullHtml/10.1145/1116715.1116741
Woods, S. (2007). Playing with an other: Ethics in the magic circle. https://jyx.jyu.fi/bitstream/handle/123456789/77522/1/Playing_with_an_Other%3A_Ethics_in_the_Magic_Circle.pdf
Cite this Episode
Eng, D. (2024, April 16). What is a Game? Retrieved MONTH DATE, YEAR, from https://www.universityxp.com/blog/2024/4/16/what-is-a-game