A global computer network connecting local area network computer networks via the TCP / IP communication protocol; as well as the collection of resources (information and services) contained therein as well as the community using it and using it. The Internet was created for the purposes of scientific and research communities in the United States, as a development of the ARPAnet military network (launched in 1969). Over time, it was accessed by companies and institutions, and eventually individual users. It is estimated that in 2016 the number of Internet users is almost 3.5 billion people, i.e. 40% of the total population.
The relationship between video games and the Internet dates back to the early 1970s. The first online game – Maze War, based on the local connection of two computers, was created by Steve Colley in 1974. The popularity of playing over the Internet was brought about by the development of the Telnet service and the appearance of the so-called MUDs (Multi-User Dungeon), i.e. text MMORPGs.
Currently, the Internet is used by the video game industry. Most of the currently produced titles have the option of online gameplay, and in some cases it is even the only fun option. The Internet is the primary source of information related to video games. Almost all producers and publishers have their own websites. Various network services addressed to players are very popular, including electronic distribution of games, fan services, various rankings, online tournaments, etc.