Because modern gaming is an activity that utilizes technology, it is constantly changing as new developments in tech occur. In recent years those developments have enabled games creators to incorporate more sophisticated storytelling and graphics that are ever more finely detailed.
These have been big contributing factors in the rising popularity of gaming across the world. The better the experience is for the player, the higher the numbers of people choosing to play will be.
As the customer base for gaming increases so trends based on differing tastes accelerate. One that has emerged strongly is the preference for either single player or multiplayer games.
In this article we will look at both and whether one is superior to the other.
Multiplayer Games
Multiplayer games are ones where people play alongside other gamers and that aspect – whether it is collaboration or rivalry – is central to the game. Popular examples of multiplayer games include:
- Call of Duty
- Rocket League
- World of Warcraft
There are several distinct benefits to them, with the most important probably being the socialization part. Choosing a multiplayer game lets the gamer play alongside friends and for many people that adds an extra element of pleasure to the exercise.
Playing multiplayer games is not always about collaborating to achieve a successful outcome though. Some of these games pit players against each other in direct competition.
That can be helpful in teaching them to cope with losses, which are harder when they are witnessed by other players. The rivalry can have the effect of sharpening the gaming skills of players too, from their reaction times to hand-eye coordination.
Finally, some types of game just work better in multiplayer mode. For example, online poker can be played alone against an automated opponent or versus real-life competitors, but the latter option is more exciting and will do more to enhance the abilities of the player.
The skill of poker lies in strategy, but also in mastering human psychology. So if people are going to learn the various poker hands that can crop up in the game they will keen to play against real opponents afterwards.
Multiplayer games do have disadvantages too. The competition can sometimes create tension between friends, while the communal focus of these games can rob the activity of some of its depth and immersive qualities.
Single Player Games
Single player games are ones that the gamer plays alone. Examples of top single player titles on the market include:
- Witcher
- God of War
- Assassin’s Creed
It is a type of gaming that has real advantages too. Many feel that it provides a deeper and richer gaming experience because the player assumes the character of the game protagonist.
Some of those who write about games also feel the depth of storyline featured in an average single player game remains superior to that of multiplayer ones. That is because the latter prioritize social appeal, which requires simpler storylines.
Furthermore, single player games let people play at their own pace. By contrast, multiplayer ones oblige each gamer to keep up; otherwise some players start to become impatient with others.
One of the primary disadvantages of these types of games is that playing alone can make it harder for first time players to learn the ropes. Another one is the total lack of social interaction that they provide, which can make playing them isolating at times.
Which is better?
Clearly both gaming formats have their benefits and drawbacks. Single player games are the most popular right now, being preferred by 57% of players.
By contrast, just 27% of those who play games state that they favor multiplayer ones. That is the case among every age group, but there are signs that it may not stay that way.
For gamers aged 35 or over, multiplayer gaming is very much a marginal activity. However, among those aged under 35, there is a higher percentage that prefer to play multiplayer games.
What is referred to as ‘social gaming’ has real appeal to these younger players, which suggests the balance between the two may shift. Potential multiplayer tech developments like virtual and augmented reality could help with that process, because they will make playing games with other people even more of an adventure.
It is not really possible to say that one of these types of gaming is better than the other. For those who prefer in-depth storytelling and immersive play, single player games are superior at the moment.
However, some people view gaming as a social activity and multiplayer ones allow them to enjoy that. It is a matter of taste.
Neither gaming format is better than the other, which a player chooses will be a matter of personal preference.