A gamer is a person who plays interactive games, including video games, board and tabletop role-playing games, skill-based card games and more. Video games are often used as a means of relaxation and stress relief, but they can also provide a way to socialize with friends or work on social skills in a group setting. Gaming is an activity that requires cognitive, motor and sensory skills in order to play and win. There are many different types of games, including puzzlers, shooters and role-playing titles.

Aside from the social and teamwork aspects of some games, gamers often enjoy exploring detailed virtual worlds. They may even use the games they play as a form of escapism, transporting them into familiar or far-off places that can be incredibly immersive. It’s also common for video games to be developed with a narrative, creating a story that players can follow and interact with.

Some researchers divide gamers into broad behavioral categories, based on their dedication to gaming, the primary type of game they play, or a combination of these factors. These categories are often referred to as “gamer personalities” and have been described by media, gaming industry analysts and academics alike.

The Enthusiast gamer enjoys playing games for the social aspect, strategy and challenge. They often have a strong sense of accomplishment and a desire to win, putting the highest value on tactics and strategies. The enjoyment of exploration and the ability to achieve a high score also rank highly on this gamer’s list of reasons for playing. The Escaper gamer uses immersive gameplay as a coping strategy for negative emotions and low self-esteem. They usually have a high impulsivity and may use their gaming behavior to avoid real-world situations.

This type of gamer is characterized by the pursuit of a goal in their game and by the creation of a virtual identity that reflects their goals, interests or personality traits. They are likely to develop a strong sense of community in their gaming world and have good memories for their achievements.

Gamers can be very loyal to their favorite video games and are usually unwilling to quit. Whether they’re battling to level up or working toward the completion of a quest, they will put in the hours it takes to rise through the ranks. Their dedication to their games can make them a bit insular, however, and they may ignore or fail to follow through on other activities or commitments because they’re focused on their game.

Gamers tend to have a strong opinion about their favorite games and are willing to talk about them for hours. This passion can lead to “gate-keeping” from a friend or family member who suspects that they don’t like the same games as them, or who thinks that gaming isn’t something they should be spending time on. They also have the ability to multitask, as they will often play a video game while doing chores around the house or on the go.