A game is typically a structured, systematic form of play, normally undertaken for fun or amusement, and at times used as an educational tool as well. Generally, games are dissimilar from work, which frequently are performed for remuneration, and in comparison to art, which is generally more a form of artistic or aesthetic elements. In work and art, there is always an element of the objective, or desired end, although this may be latent. In games, however, the object is necessarily an element of chance, requiring, at least in the beginning, a strategy or system of action to gain access to and ultimately control the outcome.
The term “strategy” is broad, but generally applies to any set of rules governing the way the player’s characters interact with the game environment. It may describe a system of behavior, a pattern of interaction, a system of rewards and punishments, or a system of expectations. In a game of strategy, each player assumes the role of some kind of character, seeking to achieve a pre-set goal. Each player has a set of skills, and each player has some degree of inherent ability. These are the fundamental tools with which a game of strategy is played.
There are many different kinds of strategies, all requiring players to take into account a variety of different factors. Some of these include terrain, timing, visibility, position, objectives, and the opposing tactics or skills of their opponents. Each game of strategy will be self-balancing, with certain values being paramount for the purpose of achieving some kind of victory. However, many games require players to work together, often forming a team. This further helps to balance the game, creating a sense of agency and responsibility among all parties participating.
Playing a game of strategy generally requires the presence of at least two people, as in a game where more than two people are competing. This is to ensure that the elements of the game do not become too unbalanced. However, more modern games may be played by only two people, as it requires less interaction than traditional two-person games.
A game of strategy normally involves a well-planned and carefully executed sequence of actions. Although the overall objective of the game may vary, this is usually tied to one or more specific goals. For example, in a game of capture the flag, each team attempts to capture the other’s flag and bring it back to their base without being taken prisoner. The object of the game may change somewhat depending on the type of game, but typically there is a main objective, although some games may have secondary objectives as well.
Some games of strategy to make use of complex mathematics. One such game, Settlers of Canaan, makes use of complex mathematics to calculate the likelihood that a certain type of event will occur. Another game, Backgammon, makes use of probability theory, with players taking turns trying to create pairs from random sets of cards. There are many more examples of games of strategy. In fact, some players are known to spend weeks or months trying to devise strategies to play particular games.