'''Games''' are structured forms of [[play]] or [[recreation]] that involve one or more participants following a set of [[rules]] or conventions. Games may be played for [[entertainment]], [[competition]], [[education]], [[exercise]], [[social interaction]], or other purposes.

Games can take many forms, including [[board game]]s, [[card game]]s, [[sport]]s, [[puzzle]]s, [[party game]]s, [[role-playing game]]s, and [[video game]]s. Some games require physical equipment, while others can be played using only the participants and a set of agreed rules.

Most games have some combination of objectives, rules, challenges, and methods for determining outcomes. A game may have a winner or ranking, although some games are cooperative and require participants to work together toward a shared objective.

Games have existed in human societies for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence shows that ancient civilizations developed games for recreation, social interaction, strategy, and gambling. Examples include ancient forms of [[chess]]-like games, [[dice]] games, and [[board game]]s.

Games can be played individually or between multiple participants. Multiplayer games may involve cooperation, competition, negotiation, or a combination of these. Some games are organized into leagues, tournaments, or other formal competitions.

Modern technology has expanded the range of games available. [[Video games]] and [[computer game]]s allow players to interact with digital environments, while online networks allow people in different locations to play together. Mobile devices have also made many games widely accessible.

Games are studied in fields including [[mathematics]], [[psychology]], [[computer science]], [[economics]], [[education]], and [[sociology]]. The mathematical study of strategic decision-making in games is known as [[game theory]].

== References ==
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[[Category:Games]]
[[Category:Play]]
[[Category:Recreation]]