The term “sandbox” is now commonly known since Minecraft became popular. Minecraft’s block worlds have become associated with “sandbox”, however, this is just a generic name for the versatile game principle. Like in sandboxes, sandbox players move freely through open game worlds where they can be active and creative thanks to the free interaction between the players and the game world.
Sandbox worlds are made to be explored, developed, worked on, and designed. This can be achieved through agriculture, industry, space travel, or architecture. The crafting is an essential characteristic of sandbox games. Another feature, known as survival mode, involves players being thrown into computer-generated worlds where they must assert themselves and evolve. The third sandbox feature is called adventure/RPG modes, where players can solve quests or choose their own game rules.