Games in Pakistan have always held a significant place in the lives of people, offering more than just entertainment. They reflect the culture, traditions, and evolving lifestyle of the nation. From the dusty fields of rural villages to the digital screens of smartphones and computers in urban areas, games in Pakistan have continuously adapted and evolved. Whether traditional, physical sports or modern video games, each form carries its own charm and importance in society.
In the countryside and small towns, traditional games still thrive among children and young adults. These games have been passed down from generation to generation and are played without the need for expensive equipment. One of the most well-known traditional games is Gilli Danda, often compared to cricket or baseball. It involves a long stick (danda) and a smaller wooden piece (gilli). The player PakGame uses the danda to flick the gilli into the air and strike it again to send it flying. The simplicity of the game and the thrill of competition make it a favorite among rural youth.
Another traditional and physically demanding game is Kabaddi. Played mostly in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kabaddi is a team sport that combines wrestling and tag. A player from one team enters the opposing team’s side and tries to tag players without getting caught, all while holding their breath and chanting “kabaddi, kabaddi. ” It is a game of strength, agility, and endurance, often played in school grounds and village fields. Kabaddi has also made its mark on the international stage, with Pakistan producing many top-level players.
Pittu Garam, also known as Seven Stones, is another traditional game that remains popular in many regions. It involves a pile of flat stones and a soft ball. One team knocks over the stones and tries to rebuild the pile while the other team tries to prevent them by hitting them with the ball. This game is fast-paced, requires teamwork, and brings children together for hours of fun and excitement.
Games like Chupan Chupai (hide and seek), Baraf Pani (freeze and unfreeze), and Langri Pala (a hopping tag game) are childhood staples. These games don’t need any tools—just space, energy, and imagination. They help children build communication skills, teamwork, and a healthy sense of competition. Such games are still widely played in both urban and rural communities, particularly during school breaks or evenings.
As Pakistan urbanized and technology advanced, newer forms of entertainment began to take over. Sports like cricket emerged as the dominant passion across the country. Cricket is not just a game in Pakistan; it is a part of national identity. From the narrow streets of Karachi to the open grounds of Lahore, cricket is played everywhere. Children grow up idolizing cricket stars like Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, and Babar Azam, and dream of playing for the national team. Informal matches using tape balls and plastic bats are a common sight, especially during weekends and holidays.
While cricket holds a special place, field hockey, once the national sport of Pakistan, also has a proud history. Pakistan’s hockey team has won several Olympic gold medals and World Cups. Though its popularity has declined in recent years, there are still ongoing efforts to revive interest in the sport through school programs and national leagues. Football is also played widely, especially in regions like Balochistan and among youth in urban centers.
In the last decade, digital gaming has taken Pakistan by storm, especially among the younger generation. With the widespread availability of smartphones and affordable internet packages, games like PUBG Mobile, Free Fire, Call of Duty Mobile, and Clash of Clans have become extremely popular. Online gaming has created new communities where players from different cities and backgrounds compete, collaborate, and even build friendships.
The rise of eSports has opened new opportunities for Pakistani gamers. Young talents are participating in local and international gaming tournaments, earning recognition and even financial rewards. One of the most famous Pakistani gamers is Arslan Ash, who gained international fame after winning global Tekken championships. His achievements have inspired many others to pursue gaming seriously, not just as a hobby but as a profession.
Gaming cafés and tournaments are now common in major cities like Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi. These spaces provide platforms for young gamers to showcase their skills, compete in teams, and build their own gaming careers. Though there are still challenges like limited access to high-end gaming systems, frequent power cuts, and unreliable internet in some regions, the gaming community continues to grow rapidly.
Apart from outdoor and digital games, indoor board games also have a strong presence in Pakistani households. Games like Ludo, Carrom, Chess, and Snakes and Ladders are favorites during family gatherings and holidays. Ludo, in particular, experienced a digital revival during the COVID-19 lockdowns, with families playing it online to stay connected. These games not only offer entertainment but also promote strategic thinking, patience, and interaction across generations.
Games in Pakistan represent more than just fun—they are a reflection of the nation’s social fabric. They bring people together, promote health and creativity, and help pass on cultural values from one generation to another. While technology has introduced new forms of play, traditional games remain deeply rooted in the lives of many, especially in areas where digital access is limited.
As Pakistan continues to develop, its game culture also evolves. The blend of traditional and modern games shows the country’s adaptability and deep connection to both heritage and innovation. Whether played in village fields or on digital screens, games will always remain a vital part of life in Pakistan, offering joy, unity, and opportunity for millions across the country.