The term "plays back" means to reproduce or repeat something that has already been recorded or performed. The antonyms of "plays back" are related to actions that involve creating something new or original. One antonym might be "composes," which involves creating a new piece of music, literature, or art. Another antonym might be "improvises," which involves spontaneously generating material off the cuff. Other antonyms of "plays back" could include "performs," "records," "writes," "creates," "develops," or "innovates." Each of these words suggests a different way of producing and sharing content that contrasts with the simple act of reproducing what has already been made.