Learn key terms related to the world of video games: discover what FPS and resolution mean, the difference between gaming consoles and PCs, what PlayStation Plus, Xbox Game Pass are, and much more. Our glossary breaks down essential concepts and helps you navigate the choice of platform and understand the specifics of gameplay.
Choosing between a gaming console and a computer is one of the first decisions any gamer faces. Each platform has its advantages, technical features, and ecosystem. Understanding terms like “upscaling,” “frame rate,” or “backward compatibility” is key to making an informed choice and maximizing your gaming enjoyment. This glossary provides clear definitions of common terms, helping you feel confident in the world of gaming.
Glossary of Terms for “Gaming Consoles and PCs”
Gaming Console — a specialized device created exclusively for video games. The main manufacturers are Sony (PlayStation), Microsoft (Xbox), and Nintendo (Switch). Consoles offer ease of use and exclusive games.
Gaming PC — a personal computer built with a focus on high gaming performance. It features a powerful processor (CPU) and graphics card (GPU), allowing for top-tier graphics and frame rates, as well as offering upgradeability.
FPS (Frames Per Second) — a measure of how many times the image on the screen updates per second. A high FPS (60 and above) provides smooth and responsive visuals, which is critical in fast-paced games, especially online.
Resolution — the number of pixels that make up an image. Main standards: Full HD (1920×1080), Quad HD (2560×1440), and 4K (3840×2160). The higher the resolution, the more detailed and sharper the image.
Refresh Rate (Hz) — a characteristic of a monitor or TV that shows how many frames per second it can display. A monitor with a 144 Hz refresh rate can show all 144 FPS, providing a smoothness advantage over the standard 60 Hz.
Graphics Card (GPU) — the most important component of a gaming PC, responsible for rendering images and graphics. The main manufacturers are NVIDIA (GeForce RTX series) and AMD (Radeon RX series).
Processor (CPU) — the “brain” of a computer or console, which processes game logic, artificial intelligence, and other calculations. Important for the overall performance of the system.
SSD (Solid State Drive) — a type of storage device with no moving parts. Much faster than traditional hard disk drives (HDD), significantly reducing game load times and speeding up system operation.
Upscaling — technologies that increase resolution and improve image quality without excessive load on the graphics card. Examples: DLSS (NVIDIA), FSR (AMD), and XeSS (Intel).
Ray Tracing — an advanced graphics rendering technology that realistically simulates the behavior of light, creating accurate reflections, shadows, and refractions. Requires powerful hardware.
PlayStation Plus (PS Plus) — a paid subscription from Sony for PlayStation console owners. Provides access to online multiplayer, monthly free games, and a catalog of hundreds of games to download.
Xbox Game Pass — a gaming subscription from Microsoft, often called “Netflix for games.” For a fixed monthly fee, it provides access to a vast library of games for PC and Xbox consoles, including many new releases from Microsoft on their launch day.
Exclusive — a game released only for one platform (e.g., only for PlayStation or only for PC) to encourage the purchase of that specific device.
Backward Compatibility — a feature of gaming consoles that allows them to run games created for previous generations of the same platform. For example, the Xbox Series X|S can play games from Xbox One and many from Xbox 360.
Game Controller (Gamepad) — the standard input device for consoles, also popular on PC. An ergonomic device with buttons, joysticks, and triggers.
Gaming Mouse and Keyboard — standard input devices for PC. Gaming models are characterized by high accuracy, programmable buttons, and special features (e.g., mechanical keyboards).
Gaming Monitor — a monitor designed specifically for gaming. Key characteristics: high refresh rate (144 Hz and above), low response time (1 ms), and frame synchronization technologies (G-Sync, FreeSync).
Gaming Headset — headphones with a microphone designed for communication with other players in multiplayer games and for full immersion in the game’s sound atmosphere.
Digital Distribution — a method of purchasing games as digital copies through online services (such as Steam, Epic Games Store, PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store), without using physical media.
Physical Copy (Disc) — the traditional method of buying a game on physical media (Blu-ray disc or cartridge). Often collected and can be resold after completion.
Platinum (Trophy/Achievement) — a virtual award in gaming services (Trophies on PlayStation, Achievements on Xbox) that a player earns for completing specific in-game conditions. “Getting the platinum” means earning all possible awards in a game.
Cross-Platform Play (Cross-Play) — a game where players on different platforms (e.g., PC and Xbox, or PlayStation and Nintendo Switch) can play together in the same online match.
Racing Wheel — a specialized controller for racing simulators, mimicking a real car steering wheel, often with a set of pedals and a force feedback system.