video game

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A video game is a computer-controlled game where players interact with objects displayed on a screen for the sake of entertainment: such a game can be run on a personal computer, a video game console, or arcade machine. The term "video game" also includes games which display only text (and which can therefore theoretically be played on a teletypewriter) or which use other methods, such as sound or vibration, as their primary feedback device, or a controller (console games), and a combination of any of the above. Also, more esoteric devices have been used for input (see also Game controller). Usually there are rules and goals, but in more open-ended games the player may be free to do whatever they like within the confines of the virtual universe.

The phrase interactive entertainment is the formal reference to computer and video games. To avoid ambiguity, game software is referred to as "computer and video games" throughout this article, which explores properties common to both types of game.

In common usage, a "computer game" or a "PC game" refers to a game that is played on a personal computer]. "Console game" refers to one that is played on a device specifically designed for the use of such, while interfacing with a standard television set. A "handheld" game is an all-in-one screen and game system which in most cases is portable. "Video game" (or "videogame"), in places where the term is used, has evolved into a catchall phrase that encompasses the aforementioned along with any game made for any other device, including, but not limited to, mobile phones, PDAs, advanced calculators, etc.