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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.


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.

But his other superpower has nothing to do with gameplay.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 21, 2026

Described as a “walkthrough experience and live gameplay attraction,” Defenders Unite will be housed at Stage 5 at the Warner Bros. studio lot.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

They've still sold bucketloads of copies, but complaints about graphical performance, gameplay and a perceived lack of innovation have grown louder with each new release.

From BBC • Mar. 3, 2026

"At least right now, AI cannot tell meaningful stories, create strong characters, or come up with fun gameplay mechanics," he said.

From Barron's • Feb. 3, 2026

“Good luck,” Ren says as the announcer reads out the familiar rules of gameplay.

From "Warcross" by Marie Lu