A Republic Of Gamers
BEAUTY IN COMMUNITY AND CULTURE
With the advent of online anonymity, many internauters have been buoyed into a false sense of security while engaging with others on online spaces. Some mouth off whatever vapid opinion comes to mind, at times without a moments consideration to whatever is being said. While this may seed dialogue that is extremely raw, kernels of truth can often be extracted from the empty husks of opinion enveloping them. One has to learn to not throw the baby out with the bathwater. Those who eschew online anonymity have to put on mortal shells. Stray comments, much like projectiles, can be dodged but sooner or later they find their target. While one can parry and riposte, eventually fatigue sets in as stamina is used up in untenable verbal battles. Some souls like conflict. These tend to respawn in unexpected places and at inopportune moments. Other souls like being a source of useful critique and encouragement. Virtual sites of grace that offer perpetual replenishment and provide sustenance for forward momentum. While the internet may have its eccentricities, it is so much more than simulacra of the real world. It is the real world. People may partake in a game of masquerades while online but their humanity still bleeds through. Their interests, likes, dislikes, skills, talent or lack thereof reveal themselves with a bit of prodding here and there. Such is the republic of gamers.
Those who eschew online anonymity have to put on mortal shells. Stray comments, much like projectiles, can be dodged but sooner or later they find their target.
Having had one of my videos unexpectedly blow up on YouTube amongst a particular subculture within gaming has had me confront this reality. While the overwhelming response has been positive and helpful, some of it has been borderline cruel. Strangely enough, cruelty not directed to me but at others. A particular favourite is an internauter who questioned if Cynthia Eviro of Wicked fame had finally turned to a YouTube career after her second outing as the Green Witch. While cruel, albeit very funny, these are statements that will never be uttered in person. The shield of anonymity has emboldened some to supercharge their comments before hurling them off into the internet ether. Icy blasts that can be missed in a blink destined to be lost in the morass of internet discussions. Thankfully, for such comments there are a myriad others from guardians of common sense and good manner. Those who are building a tower of civility and are helping build up gaming culture rather than tear it down.
Citizenship in this once fledgling republic, dating back only a few decades, was often granted to those with the wherewithal to purchase expensive hardware. With the advent of more and more powerful mobile chips developers and publishers have undertaken the noble task of availing “impossible ports” on mobile hardware. Almost every form and style of game is available on weak hardware. This has guaranteed open access to the masses regardless of socio-economic status. Much like any other society people have organised themselves into various demographics. There are hardcore gaming fanatics, there are the casual gamers, there are those who only find what they like and stick with it come rain or sunshine and many other enclaves in this varied society. As gaming culture is essentially a global phenomenon one is able to find a kinship and even form bonds with others from distant lands. A true global village. Much like any other human society there are issues. There is no utopia and no perfection. Those who’ve attempted to create such have failed miserably and decimated their respective subculture in the gaming sphere. However, many have formed friendships that extend beyond their avatars.
The shield of anonymity has emboldened some to supercharge their comments before hurling them off into the internet ether.
Because video games are an art form, arguably the highest form of art, they are used to convey various messages and help interpret the world around us. This can breed intense passion as some either agree or disagree with the game maker’s intent. This is the beauty of gaming and its culture. It has democratised art. However, much like in any democracy, gamers have the right to choose what they like or dislike. In this republic though, people vote with their wallets not with their identity cards. Democracy’s frailties are often laid bare as great art can languish in darkness while that which is considered lesser thrives out in the open and with the masses. Thus, in replicating real life or better yet, translating it, gaming has fostered a thriving community rich in heritage and culture. A true Republic of Gamers.
Video companion piece here.
Image credits in order of appearance: Image par Gordon Johnson de Pixabay; Image par Gordon Johnson de Pixabay