At Voice123, the world’s most trusted voice over marketplace for video game voice actors, we know that great video game genres are defined not only by gameplay but also by storytelling and unforgettable voice performances. But with so many different types of games out there, which one should you invest in as a video game creator?
Let’s explore the most popular video game genres shaping the industry today.
What are video game genres?
Video game genres are a classification system that categorizes video games based on gameplay mechanics, objectives, and player experience. Unlike movies, where genres rely heavily on theme and plot, game genres focus more on how players interact with the game.
For example, a shooter video game genre is defined by aiming and firing mechanics, while a role-playing game is built around character development, choices, and progression. Many modern titles combine game genres, like The Last of Us, which blends action, survival, and narrative-driven storytelling.
What are the most popular video games in 2025?
Here’s a detailed video game genres list to help you understand which types of video games are dominating the industry in 2025.
1. Action Games
Action games prioritize reflexes, combat, and quick decision-making. They’re among the most popular video game genres because of their accessibility and intensity.
- Examples: Call of Duty, Devil May Cry, Street Fighter.
- What makes them popular: Fast-paced excitement, skill-based challenges, and multiplayer competition are the reasons why action games have over 1.2 billion players worldwide.
2. Role-Playing Games (RPGs)
RPGs are one of the most widely played gaming genres, focusing on immersive storytelling and character growth.
- Examples: Final Fantasy, The Witcher 3, Elden Ring.
- Why people love them: Their complex worlds, compelling character arcs, and endless replayability allow players to immerse themselves in the storytelling.
3. Adventure Games
Adventure games focus on exploration, puzzles, and narrative. They’re often combined with other game genres to create a brand new title, like action-adventure games.
- Examples: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Uncharted.
- Why people love them: Open-world exploration and puzzle-solving combine to create cinematic storytelling and characters that become fan-favorites.
4. Shooter Games (FPS/TPS)
First-person shooters (FPS) and third-person shooters (TPS) dominate the video game industry. They’re consistently among the most popular video game genres worldwide.
- Examples: Halo, Overwatch, Fortnite, Gears of War.
- Why people love them: High-energy battles, team play, and competitive rankings create an environment where players get the best out of multiple genres.
5. Simulation Game Genres
These types of games replicate real environments and events. They offer players control over detailed, lifelike environments, from building cities to flying planes.
- Examples: The Sims, Microsoft Flight Simulator, Animal Crossing.
- Why people love them: Creativity, realism, and endless personalization allow players to enjoy real-world experiences in video games.
6. Strategy Games
Planning and foresight are essential in strategy games and they appeal to players who enjoy tactical thinking and long-term decision-making.
- Examples: StarCraft II, Civilization VI, Age of Empires.
- Why people love them: Challenging modes, multiplayer battles, and rewarding victories offer gamers a chance to match wits against other players.
7. Sports & Racing Games
These gaming genres replicate real-world competitions, from soccer and basketball to car racing.
- Examples: FIFA, NBA 2K, Gran Turismo.
- Why people love them: Their familiar rules, competitive play, and multiplayer modes enable gamers to become professional athletes.
8. Survival & Horror Video Game Genres
This video game genre thrives on suspense and resource management, making it perfect for players who crave tension and jump scares.
- Examples: Resident Evil, The Forest, The Last of Us.
- Why people love them: Adrenaline-pumping danger and emotional storytelling draw players into immersive worlds.
9. Sandbox & Open-World Games
Freedom is the defining trait of these types of video games. Players create, explore, and interact with the world however they choose.
- Examples: Minecraft, Grand Theft Auto V, Red Dead Redemption 2.
- Why people love them: Limitless creativity and captivating environments allow gamers to play from their imagination.
10. Platformer Video Game Genres
Platformers challenge players to navigate a character through various obstacles and puzzles within unique physical environments.
- Examples: Metal Slug, Donkey Kong, Super Mario.
- Why people love them: This video game genre combines action elements with 2D navigation to create action-packed puzzle gameplay.
What role does voice over play in video game genres?
Regardless of the different types of games, one thing remains constant: voice acting brings video game characters to life.
- In RPGs like Mass Effect, emotional dialogue makes players feel involved in the gaming world.
- In shooters like Call of Duty, commanding voices guide players through chaotic battlefields.
- In horror games like Silent Hill, eerie whispers and chilling tones build suspense.
At Voice123, you can hire professional voice actors for any video game genre, ensuring your characters connect with players on a deeper level.
Final thoughts on video game genres
The main video game genres define how players engage with virtual experiences, from action-packed shooters to sprawling RPGs and creative sandbox worlds. Understanding these different types of games will help you as a video game developer to identify the most popular video game genres and discover new favorites for your next gaming project.
No matter the game genre, compelling voice acting elevates the experience. That’s why Voice123 is your go-to platform to find voice talent who can bring any video game genre to life. Talk to an expert from Voice123 Enterprise to get a custom casting solution for your next project.
FAQs on video game genres
Game genres are classified by core gameplay mechanics, objectives, and player interaction. For example, shooters are often defined by combat, while puzzle games focus on problem-solving.
Currently, action and RPGs dominate globally, while mobile games have also made casual puzzle and simulation games highly popular.
There are around 10–15 main video game genres, each with its own sub-genres, such as action-adventure and first-person shooter.
Video game genres are categories that group games based on how they’re played. Popular video game genres include action, adventure, strategy, and simulation.
