Gamers are people who play games. The term is used by people who enjoy gaming as a hobby or form of entertainment, but it’s also used to describe those who enjoy playing video games competitively. Competitive gaming is similar to sports in that it requires hand eye coordination, quick reaction speed, and an analytical approach to problem solving. This type of gamer enjoys competition and achieving goals in games like Dota 2, League of Legends, or Call of Duty. They often have a deep understanding of the game mechanics and strategies, and are able to adapt to different play styles.

People who identify as gamers often participate in online gaming communities such as Steam community forums and Discord servers. They may enjoy watching live gaming broadcasts, such as those from pro Dota 2 players or those streamed on YouTube. Often, gamers will invest time into developing their gaming skills and knowledge, and find enjoyment in sharing what they have learned with other gamers.

Some gamers want to go pro and compete in eSports, similar to the NBA which houses competitive basketball teams and tournaments. These gamers are the ones who can be seen standing in line at midnight to get the latest console and new games. They are the ones who play high-score chasing games such as Call of Duty, PUBG, and Overwatch. They may also play more casual games such as Cookie Clicker or Candy Crush.

The third persona of gamers are socializers who play to meet other gamers and make friends. They enjoy the social aspects of gaming and often take on different roles in the online gaming community such as role-playing, chattering, or guild memberships. Occasionally, they can be seen as trolls, causing trouble and creating drama in the gaming world.

A fourth persona of gamers are escapers who engage in immersive gameplay to relieve negative moods, often as a coping strategy to deal with mental health issues or traumatic life experiences. They often have a low self-esteem and find comfort in the fantasy world of their favorite game.

A fifth persona of gamers are the beaters, a combination of the achiever and explorer types. They enjoy the challenge of beating other gamers in the game, and are often found scouring the internet for cheats or ways to improve their gaming skill set. They also have a high-score chasing mindset and are often impulsive, meaning they struggle with self-control when it comes to gaming. Lastly, there are the completionists who enjoy finishing every aspect of the game and gaining all rewards, items, and levels. This includes the main story, side quests, and completing all achievements. The majority of gamers are people who love to spend their free time enjoying games that they are passionate about. However, it’s important to recognize when gaming is a problem and seek to understand the reason for the issue instead of passing judgement or excluding people who do not fit the stereotypical image of a “gamer.” Let’s work together to build a more positive culture in the gaming community and help those struggling with unhealthy gaming habits.