gameplay

noun

game·​play ˈgām-ˌplā 

variants or game play

plural gameplays or game plays

1

: the characteristic way in which the action of a game (such as a video game) occurs or is experienced

Each game is cleanly done with smooth gameplay and colorful graphics.

—Joe Hindy

Featuring intuitive and addictive gameplay, the game is a lovely distraction from the troubles of the day.

—Amy Davidson

The unique game play led to players adopting all sorts of interesting strategies for getting a high score.

—Jeff Fulton and Steve Fulton

2

: the practice or activity of playing games (such as board games, card games, or video games) : gaming sense 2

Unlike the vast majority of previous studies on the effect of video games on wellbeing, the Oxford team were able to track actual gameplay, rather than relying on self-reported estimates.

—Alex Hern

While not all card shufflers operate more quickly than manual shuffling, in general, a card shuffler speeds up gameplay.

—Allen Foster

… a gaming chair that also massages your back, features an adjustable headrest and has an ergonomic design that allows for hours and hours of game play.

—Heather Quinlan

Examples of gameplay in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Through this partnership, TME empowers the gaming IP to achieve multidimensional expression across visuals, gameplay and audio via content co-creation and integrated campaigns. —Billboard China, Billboard, 4 Nov. 2025

Other contestants will leave with nothing but memories of their intense gameplay and friendships formed throughout their time in the dorms. —Emy Lacroix, PEOPLE, 4 Nov. 2025

Each team will be represented by a unique duo of creators and NBA players, including Zach 2K, BEARDABEAST, Kofie Yeboah, Gradey Dick, and Duncan Robinson, as well as a select number of fans who have risen through the ranks of 2K gameplay. —Jennifer Maas, Variety, 3 Nov. 2025

Akina adds that practice and gameplay also teach leadership, communication and resilience. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 2 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1920, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for gameplay

• aaa
• adonais
• alleyway
• alumnae
• anime
• anyway
• arete
• attache
• baa
• beaujolais
• bouvier
• breakaway