- DieByMyHand
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- Exalted Mythic Member
The following is an article I wrote on the importance of understanding what it means to game online.Game Experience May Change During Online Play
In the gaming world, no combination of seven words has the veracity of "game experience may change during online play." While many may derive from this statement these changes are negative, they are often quite the opposite. Educating yourself about gaming online can save you the headaches caused by poor online experiences.
There are a number of factors that can affect the typical gamer's online experience: for instance; network functionality, friend availability, class of opponent, entertainment system set-up, hardware reliability, comfort, and free time. These facets can determine the quality of match gamers encounter. As in everyday life, the most influential component in enjoying online gaming is the company a gamer keeps. Surrounding yourself with the right party is essential. You may find yourself frustrated diving into match after match alone, getting paired with players that are incompatible for a multitude of reasons.
Before honing your skills in a game, build your friends list. Find others that are online playing your game of choice for the same reasons, whether it's competition (casual, friendly, heated, or professional) or for recreation. Of the folks you found, choose those with similar interests, as an ability to communicate effectively will improve matches. Social networking sites and online communities are a great place to meet others that enjoy online gaming in a similar manner. If rank is important to you, be sure it is fairly earned, or it becomes meaningless.
Knowing who you want on your team is equally as important as knowing who you do not want on your team. Unfortunately, there will always be those that are looking to ruin your good time. Trash talkers, bigots, racists, cheaters, boosters, hackers, and modders alike will take pleasure in creating an environment that allows them to gain an advantage and win at the expense of others. Measures are taken to reduce the likelihood offenders will continue their ways, including a variety of bans, or in some extreme cases criminal prosecution. Ensure you know how to properly report misconduct. Ignoring the loud mouthed is an option, though many prefer to mute them and forget them.
Game experience may change during online play. This is definitely true and it is most assuredly a good thing. So get together with friends new and old, far and wide, and enjoy your time playing games online.