Glossary Entry: Metagame

Quick Definition

The metagame is the "game about the game", or to put it in simpler terms, things players do that are related to, but not explicitly part of, a game. For example, drawing fan art, coming up with theories about why game worlds work like they do, or comparing gameplay strategies are all part of the metagame.

Game developers can also encourage metagaming by having contests, providing modding support, and selling merch that can provide in-game rewards.


Back to the list of gaming jargon

Back to the Glossary's Table of Contents