When players interact by playing a similar stage game (such as the prisoner's dilemma) numerous times, the game
is called an iterated (or repeated) game. Unlike a game played once, a repeated game allows for a strategy to be contingent on past moves, thus
allowing for reputation effects and retribution. In infinitely repeated games, trigger strategies
such as tit for tat can encourage cooperation.
updated: 15 August 2005
HOW TO CITE THIS ENTRY
- To learn more:
- Play the repeated prisoner's dilemma on the applets page.
- See news articles about repeated games.