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July 26, 2026Sources cited
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Jeu vidéo

Un jeu vidéo est un jeu électronique interactif qui se déroule sur un dispositif numérique et affiche des images à l’écran.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

A video game is an interactive electronic game that runs on a digital device and displays images on a screen. Players interact with the game using peripherals such as a controller, keyboard, mouse, or touchscreen, typically for entertainment or competition.

Definition

A video game is generally defined as an interactive electronic game displayed on a screen and controlled by the player via an input device. Lexical and terminological sources emphasize interaction, playfulness, and the presence of a virtual environment.

Functioning

A video game combines rules, objectives, and an interface that allows the player to act on a digital universe. The effects of the player's actions are transmitted visually, and sometimes also through sound or haptic feedback.

Platforms and Uses

Video games exist on many platforms, including consoles, computers, smartphones, tablets, and some virtual reality headsets. They are used primarily for entertainment, but also for competition, and in some cases for simulation or learning.

Terminology and Classification

The term "video game" is now broad and can encompass very different experiences, such as shooting, strategy, role-playing, racing, or simulation games. In common usage, it refers to the entire set of interactive digital games played on a screen.

Key facts

  • A video game is a form of interactive electronic game.
  • It relies on a user interface and visual feedback on a screen.
  • The player typically interacts using a controller, keyboard, mouse, or touchscreen.
  • The term covers many formats, from console games to mobile games and virtual reality experiences.
  • A video game can be played solo or multiplayer, and can be competitive.
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Canadian context

Le Canada compte une industrie du jeu vidéo importante, et l’Office québécois de la langue française fournit une définition terminologique française du concept utilisée au Canada francophone.[3]

Frequently asked questions

What is a video game?
It is an interactive electronic game displayed on a screen and controlled by the player using a peripheral such as a controller or keyboard.
On what devices can you play?
On consoles, computers, smartphones, tablets, and in some cases, virtual reality devices.
What is the purpose of a video game?
The purpose is generally entertainment, but some games are also used for competition, simulation, or learning.
Why is it called 'video'?
The term historically refers to display on a video device, but it now applies to any type of screen.
Is a video game necessarily online?
No. A video game can be played offline or online; interactivity with the software is the essential element.
Is a video game only for entertainment?
No. Even though it is primarily used for entertainment, it can also be used for competition, simulation, or certain educational purposes.

References

  1. Wikipédiahttps://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeu_vid%C3%A9o
    Supports: Définition générale du jeu vidéo comme jeu électronique interactif avec retour visuel et usage de dispositifs d’entrée.
  2. Office québécois de la langue françaisehttps://vitrinelinguistique.oqlf.gouv.qc.ca/fiche-gdt/fiche/8355614/jeu-video
    Supports: Définition terminologique officielle du jeu vidéo comme œuvre audiovisuelle interactive et ludique.
  3. Futura Scienceshttps://www.futura-sciences.com/tech/definitions/technologie-jeux-video-19987/
    Supports: Description des interfaces, périphériques d’entrée et types de retours sensoriels associés aux jeux vidéo.
  4. Ynovhttps://www.ynov.com/definitions/jeux-video
    Supports: Présentation générale des supports de jeu et de l’évolution vers consoles, ordinateurs et mobiles.
  5. Laroussehttps://www.larousse.fr/encyclopedie/divers/les_jeux_vid%C3%A9o/101575
    Supports: Repères historiques sur l’essor des jeux vidéo et contextualisation de l’informatique de loisir.
  6. Légifrancehttps://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000045833672
    Supports: Terminologie française liée aux modèles de distribution et d’accès aux jeux vidéo.