Over the last decade gaming has changed almost beyond recognition, transforming from bedroom-based hobby, via worldwide community, to professional job. The online world has embraced gamers of all types, creating for them the perfect environment in which to play and compete at every level. Those who game online, playing with contenders who live in every corner of the planet, do it through both skill and experience, and, when it comes to online gambling, through their nerves of steel. So, who are these people and how can you recognise the different types of online gamer?
The ‘too cool to game’ Gamer
This guy isn’t keen on sharing the details of how he spends his downtime. You won’t see him browsing for hours in a game store like other gamers – he’s simply too cool to be seen as obsessed with anything other than himself. The ‘too cool to game’ Gamer owns the latest console and he always knows what games are about to be released but he nurtures his passion on the quiet, lest anyone should mistake him for a nerd.
The know-it-all nerd
The know-it-all nerd has no qualms about letting the world know all that he knows about games. His knowledge is encyclopedic and pretty useful at times but his oversharing of tricks, tips and techniques can prove wearisome at times… This gamer is loud and proud and can even be seen gaming in public on daily commutes on their phones or tablets to pass the time. If you’re playing against a know-it-all nerd, you’ll find you’ve stiff competition so watch your step!
The Pro
The Pro is someone who has taken gaming to the next level – the monetised level. For them, logging on is no longer a matter of fun and entertainment, it’s how they pay the mortgage. Those who play to win money, like professional casino players, are a very special breed. Often gifted mathematicians, very disciplined in their approach and truly dedicated to chasing the big win there are some things only Online Gamers can understand, like, for example, having working hours that are truly flexible, colleagues who operate in different time zones, and the unbeatable thrill of the big win.
The Master Gamer
The is the natural born gamer, the person who can seemingly pick up any game and play like they designed it themselves from the off. Unlike his nerdy friends, the Master Gamer isn’t bothered about the details or the stats; he’s in it for the drama and the big wins. Breaking records, demolishing leaderboards and walking away unscathed is central to being a master gamer. However beware this gamer can be a volatile opponent and can occasionally lose their temper and simply quit the game when it all goes wrong.
The Social Butterfly
For this gamer, it’s all about the community and connecting with like-minded people via the power of the console. An ever-present character, the Social Butterfly is also an organiser of tournaments and get togethers, as well as frequently acting as the conduit for new gamers to enter into established circles of friends. Friendly, knowledgeable without being boastful, and keen to share their experiences, this gamer enjoys real-world interaction as much as online parties, and can often be found advising newbies in-store.
If you’re a keen gamer, you’re likely to know at least a few of these special characters. Who knows, you may even have one of each right under your nose?
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Originally published March 22, 2016. Updated November 12, 2018.
