gameplay

American  

[geym-pley] / 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.

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gameplay British  

/ ˈɡeɪmˌpleɪ /

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of gameplay

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

Example Sentences

GTA fans are still eagerly anticipating a new gameplay trailer for the sixth game of the franchise, after previous reveals in 2023 and 2025.

From BBC • Jun. 18, 2026

Likewise, for gamers, a VPN can help reduce lag by connecting to servers in other regions, resulting in smoother gameplay.

From Salon • Jun. 10, 2026

"You can throw down, but you can also charm your way in. There's a whole spy work portion of gameplay."

From BBC • May 24, 2026

“We have clear policies prohibiting both actual and simulated gambling, and a set of rules governing how game creators can use gameplay mechanics like paid random items,” the Roblox spokesperson said.

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026

After that comes gameplay footage—two teams battling it out in Warcross’s endless virtual worlds.

From "Warcross" by Marie Lu