The world of technology has given as various forms of digital entertainment, among them is the popular world of gaming. Video games are not new to the market. They have been around for many decades and keep getting better. Since we live in the information age, gamers can now even play online games, which are available on numerous platforms. The Entertainment Software Rating Board is responsible for assigning the age and rating of content for mobile apps and video games. The board divides these games into the following main categories:

digital downloads

These types of games are downloaded to a handheld device, console, or PC directly from the Internet. Many consoles have their own online marketplaces where you can download them. They may be free games or you may be required to purchase depending on the site or type. They can be causal in nature, such as puns and brain teasers, or they can be long-lasting.

Subscription

These are simply online arcades or games that require the user to sign up and create an account to play. Some of them allow you to play one or more of them for free for a certain period after which you have to pay. The main advantage of subscriptions is that they remove the need to physically own a game in order to play it, which means you spend less on your games.

Mobile store fronts

Tablets and smartphones allow users to download applications from various online markets, linked to an electronic wallet, credit card or mobile phone account. The most popular category in mobile applications are games. The content here can vary a lot in terms of age appropriateness just like other types.

Social networks

As the name suggests, these forms are replicated from a social networking site. They encourage players to share updates and content with others on the social network. They may also include the purchase of in-game items with real money.

free to play

These are free to play online. They are usually supported by ads rather than subscriptions or purchases. The problem is, most of them allow you to play a limited version of the game and if you love it, you can buy the full version.

boxed games

They come on a cartridge or disk, and are purchased online or in a store. You play them on a gaming device, such as a console, PC, or handheld. They can be of any nature, including racing, shooting, adventure or sports.