Themes

A theme is a way of classifying a game based on its visual or narrative features rather than its gameplay.

Theme	Definition
4X (explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate)	Games that allow players to take control of enormous civilizations and do as they see fit, including the ability to explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate.
Action	Games that place a strong emphasis on physical challenges, such as quickness of reaction and hand-eye coordination. Fighting games, shooters, and platform games are just a few examples of the many sub-genres that fall under the “action theme” umbrella. The player typically controls a character that must navigate a level, avoiding obstacles, and battling enemies with skills and weapons at their disposal.
Business	Games featuring simulations that are designed around business-related concepts with a focus on management and/or economy. Players may handle production, trading, negotiation etc.
Comedy	Games with less serious undertones that are funny and cause laughter among the players. Acting, clowning around, jokes, and satire may be incorporated into these games.
Drama	Games with a heavy focus on emotional story-telling, often in a very serious manner. The objective is to increase the players' sense of tension and anticipation as the story progresses.
Educational	Games designed with the purpose of education, or which have some aspect of educational value. Designed to help players learn about specific subjects, expand concepts, understand culture/events or assist in learning a skill.
Erotic	Games designed for an adult audience with the goal of arousing players by using nudity and sexual acts.
Fantasy	Games set in fictional or historical worlds that emphasize the use of magic, the existence of mythical creatures or monsters.
Historical	Games depicted in a historical setting in which players become immersed in a specific theme while playing. These games may follow storylines from well-known human civilization's past eras.
Horror	Games designed to scare the players using morbid, dark and creepy visuals and themes. The character in the game is often challenged by evil forces as they fight for survival.
Kids	Games created specifically for young children, with easier gameplay and quick learning curves. Often includes friendly topics that work perfectly for the whole family.
Mystery	Games where ‘mystery’ is the central element of the story. Often includes solving a murder or a crime by participating in some form of investigation.
Non-fiction	Games that represent the truth and accuracy regarding people, places and events.
Open World	Games that have big world maps where you can explore or roam freely. Has the intent to provide the player autonomy and often lacks a linear and structured gameplay.
Party	Games made for larger groups or social gatherings where the player can jump into a game quickly (has an easy learning curve).
Romance	Games that include or lean heavily on emotional and romantic elements. Romance is often included in dating simulators that have a lot of dialog-heavy options. At times you must befriend and carefully build a relationship with one or more characters.
Sandbox	Games that have a high level of creativity, usually without any linear goals. Leans heavily on the player’s imagination.
Science fiction	Games that are based on fictitious futuristic concepts that may take place in space, on other planets or different dimensions. Frequently features extraterrestrial races, space exploration, starships etc.
Stealth	Games where the goal is to avoid or overcome confrontation by staying undetected. The player often has to be sneaky, stay in the shadows or use disguises. Espionage is often connected to the Stealth theme.
Survival	Games that are usually set in intense, hostile environments. The player usually begins with minimal equipment and must survive for as long as possible. Horror can also be connected to this theme, where you have to protect yourself from supernatural beings such as zombies.
Thriller	Games that are focused on giving the player the feeling of suspense, excitement, surprise, anticipation and anxiety. Is often connected to horror, but instead of constant jump-scares, the build up takes time.
Warfare	Games featuring militaristic elements or events. Usually includes all-out warfare between armies that the player can control. Sometimes involves strategies of area control on a larger scale vs one-on-on fighting.