How To Play Video Games

Video Games How To Articles

Step 1

Choose a game system that looks appealing to you. You may decide based on:

the games that are available on a particular system;
the various features of a system;
your lifestyle (for example, if you're always on the go, pick a hand held system, or if you have a lot of free time at home, choose a home console.); and
other factors, such as cost, personal reasons, etc.

Step 2

Find a game that you're interested in. You can do this by simply browsing a games store, or reading about a game in a gaming magazine or website. There are many genres of video games like RPGs (role-playing games) FPSs (first-person shooters) and MMOGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Games). Be sure to pick a game for the proper game system.

Step 3

Set up your game system by reading its manual. For a home console, usually you can just connect it to a TV and power with the cables provided. This is usually quite simple unless you own an older TV.

Step 4

Set up your game by reading its manual. Usually, this involves placing the game disk/cartridge into the appropriate slot in the game system and powering it up.

Step 5

Read the game's manual to learn how to play the game. This includes learning the controls and game play mechanics. Sometimes, a game will have a tutorial to teach you how to play the game as you're playing.

Step 6 Enjoy playing video games!

Tips

If you are playing video games for the first time, it may not be a good idea to start with an older system such as nintendo or super nintendo. The more recent systems have games that often contain one or more tutorial levels, giving the player a feel for all the controls and thus not be confused. Unlike most old video games, most modern video games also have multiple difficulty levels, allowing the new player to have a challenge without it being too hard, while still giving the more experienced gamers the chance to have a challenge.
Before buying games, its is generally a good idea to use a rental service like gamefly, or a rental store, such as blockbuster. These sources typically run out of really new games almost immediately, so renting a game when it is still a new release is largely a matter of luck, otherwise just be patient, or just preorder it.
Try to play a game or game system at a games store or a friend's place first. This can help you decide what games you like or don't like to play.
Do your research before buying anything. There can be different variations of systems or games. For example, there are three types of Gameboy Advance (regular, SP, and micro) and 3 types of Nintendo DS (regular, Lite, and DSi). Some games also have special or limited editions which are generally more expensive. Make sure you know what you want and what you're getting.
Try to stick to a budget when purchasing games. Gaming can be an expensive hobby, so be careful about what you buy.
When buying games, note the esrb (us and canada) or pegi (europe) rating on the game box. The ratings rate the suggested age-appropriateness of the game. Ratings can vary depending on the games' content.
If you are getting into retro games, such as NES or SNES, you should take into consideration that these games have very vague control descriptions (if any). They also tend to be extremely difficult and frustrating.
If you get a hand held system, remember to take care of it. They are generally somewhat delicate, so be sure not to drop it, and try to keep the screen scratch-free (most stores that sell handheld system. You can also buy cases that keep your system safe.
Try to buy games one ore two at a time. Buying multiple new games at once allows you to divide your time between them, making you less likely to get bored, though you may take longer to complete them. Given the economy, buying one at a time is better for your wallet.
An enormously successful and fun game is "Super Mario 64" which is for the Nintendo 64, which is an old console and both the console and the game are hard to get hold of. Fortunately, it has been available for the DS under the title "Super Mario DS" but it is still the same game, with a few fun things added in. It is also available on the Wii if you have access to the "Wii Shop" and 1000 Wii Points. In order to get it, click on "search by category," then "search by console," then "Nintendo 64", then "Super mario 64", this may take awhile to download but it's worth it.
Some other game systems considered ancient are also pretty fun. PlayStation 1 and game boy color are pretty primitive, but still might be fun. Also, it's pretty easy to find games for PS1 used, and also the consoles.
If you want to be on a low budget, try some retro games. These days they can sell for about 50 cents to around $8, but its smarter to download an emulator, get the roms, and play for free on a computer.

Warnings

Video games do have the potential to cause seizures to people with epilepsy. If you have a history of seizures, you should consult a doctor before use.
Video games can become addictive.
Video games are supposed to be fun. If you're getting frustrated or angry at the game, stop playing and take a break. The game will still be there when you come back.
After playing video games for a while you should try stretching to avoid cramps