Incremental game

An incremental game is a video game subgenre characterized by the incremental accumulation of in-game resources, and gradual, often exponential progression through repetitive actions or automation. The terms idle game and clicker game are also often used. Clicker games emphasize active input, such as repeatedly clicking a button to generate resources, while idle games center on automation and progress that continues with minimal player interaction. Many games combine elements of each.

Incremental games frequently feature rapidly escalating costs and rewards, with numerical values often expressed in scientific notation, shorthand formats (e.g., "1T" for trillion), or even special naming schemes for extremely large numbers. Common mechanics include prestige systems, where players voluntarily reset progress in exchange for permanent bonuses, and monetization strategies involving microtransactions (such as instant currency boosts) or advertisements granting minor in-game rewards. Popular titles like Cookie Clicker and AdVenture Capitalist helped define and popularize the genre, combining open-ended gameplay with occasional closed endings, as exemplified by Candy Box!.

Originating in the early 2000s with satirical titles like Progress Quest and Cow Clicker, the genre evolved to incorporate idle mechanics such as offline progression and layered prestige systems. Critics note its appeal as a low-pressure, distraction-friendly experience, often likened to "glorified spreadsheets" with thematic depth. Despite debates over their status as "non-games," incremental games have influenced mainstream genres by introducing auto-play modes and progression loops. Auto clicker software is commonly used to automate manual tasks, reflecting the genre's emphasis on efficiency.