Online games are video games that can be played over the Internet. They can be played on PCs, handheld devices, game consoles and – more recently – on smartphones and tablets. They are often differentiated from traditional computer and video games in that they are platform-independent, relying solely on Web browsers and the appropriate plug-in (normally free from the game developer’s Web site).

Many of these games are multiplayer, allowing players to compete against or play with others over the Internet. Some of these games have also incorporated social networking elements, such as chatrooms, into their interfaces. These features allow gamers to communicate with other people from around the world, and they can often bring new dimensions of enjoyment to these games.

Some of the more popular online games are first-person shooters and real-time strategy games. These games can be a lot of fun for people who enjoy these genres and can be very addictive when played for long periods of time. However, these games can also be harmful to the physical health of some people if played for long periods of time without rest breaks.

One way to avoid addiction to online gaming is to set time limits on how much one plays, and to find a group of gamers who enjoy the same games and can play together. It is also important to keep up with school, friends, family and other activities outside of gaming. Some people who become addicted to online gaming are prone to depression and even suicidal thoughts. This is especially true for young people, who may be more easily drawn to these games as a distraction from real-world problems.

When selecting an online game, it is important to look for one with high replayability. This means that it is possible to come back to the game and find new challenges and ways to improve, which will keep the player interested over a longer period of time. Another thing to consider is whether the game has any kind of progression system, such as leveling up or earning badges and achievements that are displayed in a profile.

Video games are often thought to be a sedentary pastime, but in recent years there has been an increase in the number of online games that encourage movement and exercise. These games can be a great way to get kids and adults moving, and they can also be a good opportunity for families to bond over a shared interest.

There are also a number of online gaming sites that offer board games for people who don’t have enough space in their homes or are too far apart to meet regularly. These games are played in real time or turn-based, and they can be played directly on a PC or on mobile apps. Some of these games can be played for free, while others are subscription-based. For example, BoardGameGeek offers a bronze package that is free to use, while a silver or gold package is available for an annual fee of $5 a month and $10 a month, respectively.