The term "game mode" refers to different ways in which a game can be played or experienced. It typically describes various difficulty levels, challenges, objectives and rules that alter how players interact with the game environment, characters, storyline, and other elements within it. Game modes can also include multiplayer options where players compete against each other online or cooperatively work together to complete a task. The term is often used in video games but can apply to board games, card games, and other forms of entertainment as well.