Platforming Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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platforming
[ˈplætfɔːrmɪŋ ]
Definition
gaming genre
Platforming refers to a genre of video games characterized by jumping between suspended platforms or over obstacles. The gameplay often involves navigating a character through a series of levels filled with challenges such as enemies, gaps, and traps. Platforming mechanics require precise timing and control to successfully traverse the environment. This genre has its roots in classic arcade games but has evolved over the years to include 3D environments and complex level design.
Synonyms
jumping, obstacle course, parkour.
Examples of usage
- Super Mario Bros is a classic platforming game.
- In platforming games, timing your jumps is essential.
- Many popular platforming titles feature colorful graphics and engaging storylines.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Gaming History
- The first popular platformer was 'Donkey Kong' released in 1981, where players controlled Mario to rescue a damsel in distress.
- 'Super Mario Bros.' revolutionized the platforming genre in 1985, introducing scrolling levels and power-ups.
- The genre evolved in the 1990s with the introduction of 3D graphics, expanding gameplay mechanics.
Cultural Impact
- Video games like 'Sonic the Hedgehog' became cultural icons and influenced music, fashion, and toy designs.
- Platformers have inspired various animated series and movies, highlighting their significant role in popular culture.
- Annual events dedicated to retro gaming celebrate classic platformers, showcasing their lasting popularity.
Psychology
- Platforming games often require players to develop spatial awareness and strategic planning skills.
- Studies show that playing these games can improve problem-solving abilities and hand-eye coordination.
- The satisfaction of overcoming challenges in platformers relates to a psychological phenomenon called the 'flow state,' where individuals feel fully immersed in the activity.
Technological Advancements
- The development of gaming consoles with advanced hardware has allowed platforming games to incorporate detailed graphics and physics.
- Modern platforms utilize online gameplay, enabling players to connect and compete with others globally.
- Emerging technologies like virtual reality are creating new ways to experience platforming, making movements feel more immersive and interactive.
Origin of 'platforming'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'platform' comes from the French word 'plateforme', meaning a flat surface.
- The suffix '-ing' indicates the action of using or moving on a platform, leading to the active form we've come to know.
- The concept of 'platforming' in gaming emerged in the late 1970s with the rise of arcade games.
The term 'platforming' originates from the word 'platform', which describes the flat surfaces or structures in video games where characters can stand or jump. The gaming genre began to take shape in the late 1970s and early 1980s, with landmark titles such as 'Donkey Kong' (1981) and 'Super Mario Bros' (1985) that defined the core elements of platform gameplay. These games required players to control a character's movements across different levels filled with platforms, hence the name. Over the years, platforming has diversified into various styles and adaptations, including 2D side-scrolling and fully 3D environments. The emphasis on skillful jumping and navigation has made platforming a staple genre in the gaming industry, influencing countless other game types and being a favorite among players of all ages.