Point & click games
The classic adventure tradition where you solve puzzles by interacting with objects in the scene using the mouse.
What is the point & click genre?
In a point and click game all interaction happens through the cursor: You click an object, take it into your inventory and then use it in the right place or with the right person. Instead of steering a character, you study the scene. That is why the genre asks for attention rather than reflexes; the solution is often hidden in a detail you missed.
The genre had its golden age in the 1990s and is known for strong dialogue and a tradition of humor. Today it is coming back in the hands of indie studios; modern releases keep the same structure while cutting down illogical puzzles and the risk of getting stuck.
What defines it?
Looking, taking and using are all done with the mouse.
Combining collected objects in the right place is the key to progress.
Talking to characters is part of gathering information and often part of the solution.
You can study the scene as long as you like; the game does not rush you.
Landmark games
Well-known examples often used to explain the genre. For the list on our site, see the games section below.
At a glance
Point & click games (4)
Frequently asked questions
Why does this page combine two tags?
Our Turkish site lists this genre under both its Turkish name (işaretle ve tıkla) and its English name, so some games carry one tag and some the other. In English they are the same genre, so this page shows games from both.
What should I do if I get stuck?
The classic approach is to sweep every scene again and try every item in your inventory. Most modern releases offer a hint button or an option that highlights interactive objects.
Can these games be played with a controller?
Console versions let you move the cursor with the analog stick, but the genre is designed for the mouse and plays most comfortably on a computer.