We all know that it is hard to maintain decency in playing games nowadays. In addition, we also know that being a proper human, let alone being a competent gamer, is hard. Finally, we understand if you sometimes slip up in your journey to be a decent person.
In short, we really do.
That is why we are writing this guide for you gamers out there – many of us already know this as a matter of fact, but as human beings, we tend to forget everything from time to time. We hope that this guide helps you become a better person and gamer, while helping to cultivate politeness and digital citizenship to those around you!
In other words: Don’t hate. Educate.
Good luck and have fun!
Say “good luck and have fun” (GLHF) and “good game, well played” (GGWP) at the start and end of each match, respectively. If someone performed well, thank them and commend them. Showing gratitude costs you nothing and helps you gain the other person’s respect! It’s a win-win situation.
Level Up: Avoid trash-talking someone unless you know the person well. Even then, joke around with moderation.
Do not type regionalist, racist, and sexist remarks in chat.
Just don’t. It’s not about being a snowflake or being “malambot” or being whatever – it is both bad digital citizenship and you will be criminally liable for it.
It’s easy to say not to do it, but how often do we actually try? No one likes having a bad gaming experience.
What sort of example do we want to set for them?
Level Up: Should you happen upon players insulting other people, report them.
Communicate properly
Online gaming here in the Philippines is already hard enough as it is. Use voice chat in order to call out spots, relay necessary information, and point out gaps in a kind way. Do not use the voice chat to shit-talk people.
Level Up: When there’s someone in your team giving good advice in a GOOD WAY, listen to them. You will find it a good learning experience.
Do not be an iyakin
Just accept defeat and move on.
Level Up: Take the opportunity to learn from your defeats.
Play with the end in mind
Remember, you are responsible for your teammates’ game, just as they are responsible for carrying or supporting you in the game.
Play with a decent internet connection – do not play ranked if you are not sure about your latency.
Level Up: If you have good teammates, try to add them; maybe you can have another good game together!
There you have it! It’s easy to maintain decency in playing games.
These are easy, simple ways to impact the world and make it a better place. Follow them, and hopefully, these tips will lead to a better gaming experience overall!
About the Iyakin
Earl Carlo Guevarra, 27 and a proud Zamboangueño, is a teacher of English based in the heart of Manila. When he’s not teaching children the fundamentals of grammar, he writes essays and poems, many of which have been published locally and internationally. He also loves fruit shakes and video games.
