variants
or game play
plural gameplays or game plays
1
: the characteristic way in which the action of a game (such as a video game) occurs or is experienced
Each game is cleanly done with smooth gameplay and colorful graphics.—Joe Hindy
Featuring intuitive and addictive gameplay, the game is a lovely distraction from the troubles of the day.—Amy Davidson
The unique game play led to players adopting all sorts of interesting strategies for getting a high score.—Jeff Fulton and Steve Fulton
2
: the practice or activity of playing games (such as board games, card games, or video games) : gaming sense 2
Unlike the vast majority of previous studies on the effect of video games on wellbeing, the Oxford team were able to track actual gameplay, rather than relying on self-reported estimates.—Alex Hern
While not all card shufflers operate more quickly than manual shuffling, in general, a card shuffler speeds up gameplay.—Allen Foster
… a gaming chair that also massages your back, features an adjustable headrest and has an ergonomic design that allows for hours and hours of game play.—Heather Quinlan
Cite this Entry
“Gameplay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gameplay. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.
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