The top-level domain (TLD) “.play” is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) in the Domain Name System of the Internet. Every website address ends with a TLD, and they come in several different forms. For example, the TLD for the site “www.example.com” is “.com”. Similarly, a website ending in “.play” would have “.play” as its TLD.
The “.play” TLD does not have a specific defined use, unlike other TLDs such as “.gov” for government websites or “.edu” for educational institutions. It is available for anyone to use for any purpose, although it obviously has connotations of fun, games, and entertainment, making it an attractive option for companies or individuals involved in play activities, gaming, theatre, or other entertainment sectors.
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), the organization in charge of overseeing domain names, first introduced the “.play” TLD during the New gTLD Program. This program, which began in 2012, aimed at expanding the available TLDs beyond the original options like “.com”, “.org”, and “.net”.
As of now, the “.play” extension is managed and offered to the public by several domain name registrars. For instance, GoDaddy, one of the world’s largest domain name registrars, retails the “.play” TLD for purchase. The pricing varies, but it generally tends to be in the moderate range, around $20-$30 per year, depending on the registrar.
Bear in mind that the “.play” TLD may increase a website’s visibility and relevance in web searches related to playing games or enjoyment activities, though Google has stated that it doesn’t give any advantage to websites with keyword-related TLDs in its ranking. However, from a branding and marketing perspective, having a “.play” domain may impart a certain sense of identity and engagement to a brand, particularly if its business involves play or entertainment.
Regardless of its advantages or disadvantages, individuals and businesses can definitely seek to advantage from using the “.play” TLD by associating the site with playfulness, fun, and games.
As for examples, the “.play” TLD has not found widespread usage compared to more common TLDs like “.com” or “.org”, but it’s gradually gaining popularity. A notable example is “www.re.play”, which is a website that specializes in hosting video game streams.
Sources:
1. ICANN: About the New gTLDs Program [https://newgtlds.icann.org/en/about/program]
2. GoDaddy: .play Domain Names [https://godaddy.com/domain/search-results?checkAvail=1&tmskey=&domainToCheck=play]
3. Google: How Google handles the new top-level domains [https://developers.google.com/search/blog/2015/07/googles-handling-of-new-top-level]
4. Re.Play website [http://www.re.play]
