Starting your gaming journey can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. There are so many different types of games out there, each with its own style, rules, and community. As a new player, you might wonder where to begin, which genres suit you best, and how to pick games you’ll actually enjoy.
This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step—how to explore different game genres, what each type offers, and how to choose the ones that fit your style.
Step 1: Know Your Gaming Goals
Before diving into game genres, ask yourself a few questions:
- Do you want to relax and unwind after work or school?
- Are you looking for a challenge that keeps you thinking?
- Do you enjoy competing with others or prefer solo adventures?
- Do you want quick matches or long, story-rich experiences?
Your answers will help you narrow down genres that match your personality and lifestyle. For example, if you want something calming, puzzle or simulation games might be your style. If you love high-energy competition, you might enjoy first-person shooters or battle royale games.
Step 2: Understand the Main Game Genres
Here’s a breakdown of popular game genres and what they offer to new players.
1. Action Games
- Examples: Super Mario Odyssey, Assassin’s Creed, God of War
- What they are: Fast-paced games that test your reflexes, timing, and hand-eye coordination.
- Why you might like them: They give you instant excitement and a feeling of accomplishment when you clear levels or defeat enemies.
- Best for: Players who like quick action, movement, and adrenaline-filled moments.
Tip for new players: Start with beginner-friendly action games that have adjustable difficulty levels.
2. Adventure Games
- Examples: The Legend of Zelda, Life is Strange, Monkey Island
- What they are: Games that focus on exploration, storytelling, and solving problems.
- Why you might like them: You can immerse yourself in unique worlds, interact with characters, and enjoy a strong storyline.
- Best for: Players who love a good story and want to take their time exploring.
Tip for new players: Choose games with hint systems or guided objectives so you don’t feel lost.
3. Role-Playing Games (RPGs)
- Examples: Final Fantasy, The Witcher 3, Pokémon
- What they are: Games where you take on the role of a character (or party of characters) and develop their skills, abilities, and story over time.
- Why you might like them: RPGs let you make choices that shape the game’s world and outcome.
- Best for: Players who enjoy storytelling, character growth, and long-term goals.
Tip for new players: Start with simpler RPGs before moving into complex ones with deep systems.
4. Simulation Games
- Examples: The Sims, Animal Crossing, Stardew Valley
- What they are: Games that mimic real-life activities or let you run something, like a farm, business, or even a city.
- Why you might like them: They can be relaxing and give you a sense of control over your environment.
- Best for: Players who prefer low-pressure, creative experiences.
Tip for new players: Pick a simulation game with a flexible pace so you can play without stress.
5. Puzzle Games
- Examples: Tetris, Portal, Candy Crush
- What they are: Games focused on problem-solving, logic, and pattern recognition.
- Why you might like them: They challenge your brain while still being fun. Many puzzle games can be played in short sessions.
- Best for: Players who like mental challenges without high-intensity action.
Tip for new players: Start with mobile or casual puzzle games before moving to complex ones.
6. Strategy Games
- Examples: Age of Empires, Civilization, StarCraft
- What they are: Games that require planning, resource management, and tactical decision-making.
- Why you might like them: They reward smart thinking and long-term planning rather than quick reflexes.
- Best for: Players who enjoy thinking ahead and controlling multiple aspects of a game.
Tip for new players: Begin with turn-based strategy games before trying real-time strategy.
7. Sports and Racing Games
- Examples: FIFA, NBA 2K, Mario Kart, Forza Horizon
- What they are: Games that simulate sports or racing, either realistically or in a fun, arcade style.
- Why you might like them: They’re competitive, familiar, and often great to play with friends.
- Best for: Players who like real-world sports or fast-paced competition.
Tip for new players: Start with arcade-style sports games—they’re more forgiving than realistic simulators.
8. Shooter Games
- Examples: Call of Duty, Fortnite, Overwatch
- What they are: Games that focus on combat, usually involving guns or other ranged weapons.
- Why you might like them: They’re exciting, competitive, and often involve teamwork.
- Best for: Players who enjoy fast reflexes and high-energy gameplay.
Tip for new players: Try shooter games with a training mode or cooperative play to learn the basics.
9. Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA)
- Examples: League of Legends, Dota 2, Smite
- What they are: Team-based strategy games where players control unique characters with special abilities.
- Why you might like them: They combine teamwork, strategy, and action.
- Best for: Players who like team coordination and competitive matches.
Tip for new players: Watch tutorials and play beginner modes before joining ranked matches.
10. Sandbox/Open-World Games
- Examples: Minecraft, Grand Theft Auto V, Terraria
- What they are: Games that give you freedom to explore, build, and interact with the game world in your own way.
- Why you might like them: There’s no strict path—you can play at your own pace.
- Best for: Creative players who like experimenting and exploring.
Tip for new players: Start with a clear goal in mind so you don’t feel overwhelmed.
Step 3: How to Explore Game Genres as a New Player
Here’s a practical way to explore without feeling lost.
1. Start Small
Don’t jump into the most complex game in a genre right away. Choose beginner-friendly games or “lite” versions to get familiar with the mechanics.
2. Use Free-to-Play Games
Many genres have free games you can try before spending money. This is a safe way to see if you enjoy the style.
3. Watch Gameplay Videos
YouTube and Twitch are full of gameplay videos. Watching others play gives you a clear idea of the pace, style, and learning curve before you commit.
4. Play Demos
Some platforms offer demo versions of games. Use them to test controls, visuals, and gameplay style.
5. Join Communities
Reddit, Discord, and other gaming forums can help you get recommendations and beginner tips. Many players are happy to guide newcomers.
6. Explore Cross-Genre Games
Some games mix elements from different genres, which can help you discover what you like. For example, an action-RPG might appeal to both action and story lovers.
Step 4: Tips to Pick the Right Genre for You
- Match it to your mood. If you’re tired, go for relaxing genres like simulation or puzzle games.
- Consider your available time. RPGs and strategy games often require longer sessions, while puzzle games can be played in quick breaks.
- Think about your platform. Some genres are better suited for consoles, others for PC or mobile.
- Balance challenge and fun. Don’t start with something too frustrating—it can make you lose interest.
- Be open to trying new things. Even if a genre doesn’t sound appealing at first, you might be surprised once you play.
Step 5: Recommended Starter Games by Genre
Here’s a quick beginner-friendly list:
- Action: Spider-Man (PS4/PS5), Ori and the Blind Forest
- Adventure: Firewatch, A Short Hike
- RPG: Pokémon, Dragon Quest XI
- Simulation: Stardew Valley, The Sims 4
- Puzzle: Tetris Effect, Monument Valley
- Strategy: Into the Breach, Plants vs. Zombies
- Sports/Racing: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Rocket League
- Shooter: Splatoon 3, Plants vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville
- MOBA: League of Legends: Wild Rift (mobile)
- Sandbox/Open-World: Minecraft, LEGO Worlds
Step 6: Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Starting with the hardest games in a genre. You’ll feel discouraged—start easy.
- Forgetting about tutorials. They exist for a reason—don’t skip them.
- Comparing yourself to experienced players. Everyone starts somewhere.
- Buying too many games at once. You might feel overwhelmed—try one or two at a time.
- Ignoring indie games. Smaller games can be great for beginners and often cost less.
Step 7: Growing as a Gamer
Once you’ve tried a few genres and found what you enjoy, you can:
- Try more challenging games in your favorite genre.
- Explore multiplayer or online communities.
- Experiment with custom content or mods.
- Share your experiences with others and recommend games.
The more you play, the better you’ll understand your preferences and skills.
Final Thoughts
Exploring game genres is like tasting different dishes—you won’t know your favorites until you try them. As a new player, start small, pick beginner-friendly titles, and be patient with yourself. Every gamer was once a beginner, and the goal is to have fun while learning.
Whether you enjoy the thrill of action games, the creativity of simulations, or the brain-teasing nature of puzzles, there’s a genre out there that’s perfect for you. Take it one step at a time, and soon you’ll not only know which genres you love—you’ll also feel confident exploring new ones.