Sports activities can be taken as a game or with a competitive purpose.
Before going into the full analysis of the term game that concerns us now, it is important that we first proceed to establish its etymological origin. In this sense, we can determine that it is found in Latin and more exactly in the word iocus which is synonymous with joke .
Recreational activity involving one or more participants is known as a game . Its main function is to provide entertainment and fun , although it can also serve an educational role . Games are said to help with mental and physical stimulation , as well as contributing to the development of practical and psychological skills.
The game can be defined both by the goal its players are trying to achieve and by the set of rules that determine what these players can do.
Types of game
There are numerous types of games: role-playing games (where the participant assumes a specific role or personality), strategy games (entertainment that requires intelligence and planning, such as chess or checkers ), board games (as the name indicates, they require a medium for people to play), card games ( poker , blackjack ) and video games (computer programs that require an electronic device), among others.
Likewise, we cannot forget what is known as popular or traditional games. These are those that have been passed down from generation to generation over time and that, despite everything, continue to amuse and entertain children of all ages.
For example, among the best-known games that can be included in this category we find skipping rope, the so-called handkerchief game, marbles, spinning tops, sack races, tag or the rubber band game.
Electronic games appeal to children and adults alike.
Entertainment for adults and children
However, we cannot ignore the fact that there are many of these traditional games that are not aimed at children, but are played by adults. This would be the case, for example, of the well-known game of pétanque, pelota vasca, which is native to the Basque Country, or the frog game, which has different names depending on the country in which it is played.
Children's games, on the other hand, may involve the use of a toy (although this is not essential). A toy is an object that can be used individually or in combination with others. Although some are associated with particular historical periods or cultures, others are universally popular. The main purpose of a toy is recreation , but it also helps in the formation , learning and development of the child.
The game in mathematics and literature
It is worth noting, on the other hand, that there is a discipline of mathematics known as game theory , which uses models to analyze interactions in formalized incentive structures and to carry out decision-making processes.
Finally, we must add that a fantasy literary saga entitled "Game of Thrones" has recently become very successful all over the world. It is written by American George RR Martin.