Multiplayer video games are video games in which multiple players can play in a single game environment, simultaneously. As opposed to single player games where a player competes against pre-programmed challenges, multiplayer games have players competing against (or collaborating with) other players. In multiplayer games, players can communicate between each other. Players will be required to share the resources of a game system or make use of networking technology (such as the Internet) in order to play together.

Multiplayer video games began with non-networked games. These were available as early as 1958 in a game known as Tennis for Two. The first real time multiplayer games were developed in 1973 on the PLATO system.

The first networked multiplayer games that involved large scale serial sessions were developed later and included games such as CAVE (based on Dungeons and Dragons) in 1975 and STAR (based on Star Trek). These games developed over time as technology developed. The development of networked multiplayer LAN games eliminated many common problems associated with playing over the Internet, such as lag and anonymity. From 1996 with Sega Netlink, game consoles support network gaming via LANs and the Internet and today, many mobile smartphones or handheld consoles use Bluetooth technology (or similar) to offer wireless gaming.

Different multiplayer video games work in different ways, depending on the exact game. The themes of the games vary, along with the design and the player requirements. However, commonly, in order to progress through the levels or worlds of the game, players need to work together in some way This may involve collaborating or using collective intelligence to get past a certain level or it may require competition between players. You may need to use your gaming skills against another player or group of players in order to succeed in the game.

These multiplayer games commonly allow you to create groups or communities between the players. The communities are generally made up of people with similar interests, as they are playing the same games. Players are able to communicate with one another - either within groups or even one-on-one. Communication may be possible via text, image or sound.

Multiplayer games once involved split screens where multiple players could participate in a single game, but would use the same screen and would be in the same physical location while doing so. Online multiplayer video games has changed that. You can now join up with other players and become part of a community of players who live across the world from each other. In fact, you can have no connection to other members of your community, other than what is created via the game. The social aspects of these games have changed. Where once you played with your friends or family, you can now play with total strangers and create relationships that generally last only via the game. The video gaming industry is quite different from the casino industry customers, who prefer to play their casino games alone. Online multiplayer video games are the way that video gaming has gone and they appear that they are here to stay for the long term.