PvE stands for player versus environment. In PvE, the main challenge comes from the game world rather than from another human player.
Common PvE examples
PvE can include story missions, raids, dungeons, boss fights, puzzles, survival challenges, enemy waves, and exploration. The enemies are usually controlled by game logic.
Why PvE is popular
PvE lets players learn at their own pace, cooperate with friends, enjoy story content, and face designed challenges. It can be relaxing, difficult, or highly tactical depending on the game.
PvE is often paired with co-op, where several players work together against the game.