Games That Require Thinking
A game is basically a structured kind of play, normally undertaken for fun or entertainment, and at times used as a learning tool. Games are very different from work, which normally is performed for profit, and from architecture, which is essentially a more pure expression of philosophical or artistic components. In general, games are games in which the participants act out a story, trying to solve the puzzle or reach a goal. The object of the game is generally to do as much as possible while acting under the influence of the game rules.
Most games fall under one of two broad categories: active games, in which the rules define what can be done; and passive games, in which the rules may describe what can’t be done. In an active game, players take an active part in the action. For example, a racing game involves getting your car going as fast as possible. In such a game, you are playing for yourself, for your own benefit, not for the benefit of anyone else. In a game such as chess, the object is to checkmate your opponent, by making it difficult for him to form any meaningful thought.
A passive game, on the other hand, is a game in which the player passively controls the progress of the plot. In popular literature, the passive characterizes the detective in stories like Sherlock Holmes, where the detective solves the crime without employing any conscious effort. In computer games, the player passively controls the actions of the characters in the game. The player is the investigator in an investigation mystery, seeking clues to solve the case. If the investigation is successful, the suspect is revealed to be innocent.
Active and passive games have different levels of complexity. While an active game requires the participant to use his or her own imagination and intelligence, a passive game requires only a minimal amount of critical thinking. Most people in a passive game solve problems by memorizing general rules, applying the necessary psychological principles to the evidence at hand, deducing the necessary scientific laws, etc. When solving a problem that does not require a great degree of imagination or intelligence, then the rules of the game pretty much apply.
There are many different types of passive and active games. They include bingo, crossword puzzles, gambling games, and card games such as poker, blackjack, and baccarat. These games are designed to be played by people who are comfortable using their own ordinary playing skills without having to learn complicated rules from beginning to end. Often, the rules are laid out so that the player doesn’t have to think much except to follow the guidelines and perform the necessary actions.
One type of this type of game, however, is often played in a very controlled, structured manner. This is known as a game of strategy. In this game, the players are required to choose the rules of the game very carefully, often working closely with an expert or coach so that they can learn how to play it well. Strategy games often involve advanced mathematics or other areas of science.