Translation guide
The most common and natural way to say 'video game' in Japanese is テレビゲーム (terebi gēmu) or simply ゲーム (gēmu). The term ビデオゲーム (bideo gēmu) is understood but less common in everyday speech. This guide covers how to refer to video games in various contexts.
Referring to video games in general, as a medium or hobby.
The most standard and widely used term for video games played on a TV or console. Often shortened to just ゲーム.
休みの日はいつもテレビゲームをしています。
On my days off, I always play video games.
The most common casual term. In context, it almost always means video games. Can also refer to games in general, but usually clear from context.
新しいゲームを買った。
I bought a new video game.
Directly from English 'video game'. Understood, but less natural than テレビゲーム or ゲーム. More common in formal or technical contexts, or when distinguishing from other types of games.
ビデオゲームの歴史について研究しています。
I'm researching the history of video games.
Literally 'computer game'. Used specifically for games played on a personal computer, not consoles. Can sound slightly dated or technical.
昔はコンピューターゲームでよく遊んだ。
I used to play a lot of computer games back in the day.
Talking about a particular video game or type of game.
Use this pattern to mention a specific game by name. という means 'called'.
「ゼルダの伝説」というゲームが好きです。
I like the game called 'The Legend of Zelda'.
Use to specify a genre. Common genres: RPG (アールピージー), アクション (action), シューティング (shooting), パズル (puzzle).
RPGのゲームをよくやります。
I often play RPG games.
Expressing the action of playing video games.
The most common way to say 'play video games'. The verb する (to do) is used with ゲーム.
昨日は一日中ゲームをしていた。
Yesterday I played video games all day.
Literally 'play with games'. Slightly more casual and emphasizes the fun aspect. Often used when talking about children or casual play.
子供たちはゲームで遊んでいます。
The children are playing video games.
A more casual version of ゲームをする. Very common in spoken Japanese.
今からゲームやらない？
Wanna play some video games now?
Referring to consoles, handhelds, or gaming devices.
General term for game console or gaming device. Can refer to home consoles or handhelds.
新しいゲーム機が欲しい。
I want a new game console.
In most everyday situations, simply saying ゲーム is enough. Japanese speakers rarely specify 'video' unless the context is ambiguous (e.g., board games vs. video games).
While ビデオゲーム is a direct translation, it can sound stiff or overly literal. Stick to テレビゲーム or ゲーム for natural speech.
Specifically a portable/handheld game device like a Nintendo Switch or PSP.
携帯ゲーム機で電車の中で遊ぶ。
I play on my handheld game device on the train.