Multiplayer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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multiplayer
[หmสltiหpleษชษr ]
Definition
gaming context
Multiplayer refers to a mode or feature in games where multiple players can participate simultaneously. This can include both competitive and cooperative gameplay. Multiplayer experiences can vary widely, from local split-screen play to large-scale online matches. The emergence of multiplayer gaming has significantly influenced game design and player interaction in virtual environments.
Synonyms
competitive, cooperative, online.
Examples of usage
- We played a multiplayer game last night.
- The new update added a multiplayer mode.
- Multiplayer games often require teamwork.
- He prefers multiplayer over single-player games.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- Games like 'Mario Kart' and 'Fortnite' helped to popularize multiplayer gaming in casual settings.
- Massively Multiplayer Online (MMO) games, like 'World of Warcraft', have created huge communities of players from all around the world.
- Streaming platforms like Twitch have turned multiplayer gaming into a spectator sport, with audiences watching their favorite players compete.
Technology
- The development of high-speed internet has made online multiplayer experiences smoother and more accessible.
- Cloud gaming services allow players to join multiplayer games on various devices without needing high-end hardware.
- Advancements in virtual reality are pushing the boundaries of how multiplayer experiences can be immersive and interactive.
Psychology
- Playing multiplayer games can enhance social skills as players communicate and cooperate with each other.
- It fosters a sense of community and belonging, leading to friendships that may persist outside the gaming world.
- However, excessive multiplayer gaming can lead to increased competition and stress for some individuals.
Education
- Multiplayer games are increasingly being used in educational settings to teach teamwork and problem-solving skills.
- Games like 'Minecraft' have educational versions that allow players to collaborate on creative projects and explore concepts like architecture and history.
- There is a growing interest in using multiplayer formats for collaborative learning in classrooms, enhancing engagement among students.
Origin of 'multiplayer'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'multiplayer' combines 'multi-' meaning many, with 'player' referring to a person taking part in a game.
- It originated in the early days of computer gaming, with the rise of arcade games allowing multiple participants.
- The concept became more popular in the 1980s as home computers started facilitating shared gaming experiences.
The term 'multiplayer' originates from the combination of 'multi-' which is a prefix meaning 'many' or 'multiple,' and 'player' which denotes a participant in a game or activity. The use of 'multiplayer' in gaming started gaining prominence in the late 20th century with the rise of home gaming consoles and PC games that allowed connectivity between players. Early examples of multiplayer gaming were often limited to linked devices or local networks. As technology evolved, so too did the concept of multiplayer gaming, expanding to include massive online games that could accommodate thousands of players interacting within a single game world simultaneously. The term now encompasses a wide range of gameplay experiences across various platforms, signaling a significant shift in how people engage with video games.