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gameplay

American  
[gaym-play] / ˈgeɪmˌpleɪ /

noun

  1. the interactive content and player experiences in a game, especially a video game.

    The reviews are saying that the gameplay is solid, but the art—especially in the cinematics—is unforgivably bad.

  2. the activity or manner of playing a game.

    The retired chess grandmaster recently published a book with analyses of famous historical games for players looking to perfect their gameplay.


gameplay British  
/ ˈɡeɪmˌpleɪ /

noun

  1. the plot of a computer or video game or the way that it is played

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of gameplay

First recorded in 1990–95; game 1 ( def. ) + play ( def. )


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

According to 42-year-old Alex Hernandez, "it’s really well-made; the gameplay is sharp and responsive."

From Barron's ● Oct. 23, 2026

"It's a new character, but the story should feel like the gameplay feels," he told AFP in an interview.

From Barron's ● Sep. 16, 2026

Meanwhile in Rio Run, players must "patrol the line along the river", with gameplay reminiscent of the classic phone game Snake.

From BBC ● Sep. 9, 2026

With gameplay based on Chinese martial arts and inspired by wuxia cinema, the development team worked in close collaboration with traditional martial arts schools.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 9, 2026

The game announcer has started the official pregame ritual, reading off something about good sportsmanship and honorable gameplay.

From "Warcross" by Marie Lu

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