87 Things About Online Gaming You’ll Kick Yourself for Not Knowing

Disclaimer: While I’ve compiled a vast array of gaming trivia and insights, the sheer number of games and constant updates means some information might be outdated or specific to certain titles. Always verify information before making significant gameplay decisions.

The World of Online Gaming: Hidden Depths

Online gaming, a digital realm teeming with adventure, competition, and social interaction, is a universe of its own. Beyond the obvious, there’s a wealth of knowledge that can elevate your gaming experience. Here are 87 things you might not have known: gclub

General Gaming Knowledge

1. Input Lag: This is the delay between pressing a button and the game responding. High-speed internet and low-latency connections are crucial to minimize it.
2. FPS vs. Refresh Rate: While both affect smoothness, FPS (frames per second) is how fast the game renders images, while refresh rate is your monitor’s display speed.
3. DPI and Sensitivity: These settings control mouse movement speed. Lower DPI and sensitivity often improve accuracy.
4. FOV (Field of View): Adjust this setting to change how much of the game world you see. Higher FOV can improve visibility but might distort visuals.
5. Headset vs. Speakers: Headsets offer better positional audio, crucial for competitive and immersive games.
6. Game Optimization: Tweaking graphics settings, closing unnecessary programs, and updating drivers can significantly improve performance.
7. Cloud Gaming: Play high-demand games on weaker hardware by streaming the game from powerful servers.
8. Game Patches: Regular updates often include bug fixes, new content, and balance changes.
9. DLC (Downloadable Content): Additional content sold separately, ranging from cosmetic items to expansive expansions.
10. Microtransactions: In-game purchases for virtual items, often implemented in free-to-play games.

PC Gaming Specifics

11. Keyboard and Mouse: Mechanical keyboards offer faster response times, while ergonomic designs prevent strain.
12. GPU (Graphics Card): The heart of PC gaming, responsible for rendering visuals.
13. CPU (Processor): Handles game logic and calculations.
14. RAM (Memory): Temporary storage for data the system actively uses.
15. Overclocking: Pushing hardware beyond its default limits for increased performance (can be risky).
16. Modding: Customizing games through user-created modifications.
17. Steam Workshop: A platform for sharing mods and custom content.
18. Origin, Epic Games Store, Battle.net: Other popular PC gaming platforms.
19. Digital Distribution: Buying and downloading games online, eliminating physical discs.
20. Game Keys: Codes used to redeem digital games.

Console Gaming Nuances

21. Controller Layout: Each console has its own button configuration.
22. Backwards Compatibility: The ability to play older games on newer consoles.
23. Online Subscriptions: Required for online multiplayer on many consoles.
24. Exclusive Games: Titles available only on specific consoles.
25. Trophies and Achievements: In-game rewards for completing challenges.
26. Save Data: Regularly back up your game saves to prevent loss.

Multiplayer Dynamics

27. Ping: The time it takes for data to travel between your computer and the game server. Lower ping is better.
28. Lag: Delayed or interrupted gameplay due to high ping or network issues.
29. Teamwork: Cooperation is essential in many multiplayer games.
30. Communication: Using voice chat or text chat can improve coordination.
31. Class Roles: Different character types with specific abilities.
32. Loadouts: Customizing character equipment and abilities.
33. Meta: The prevailing strategies and character choices in competitive play.
34. Ranked Matches: Skill-based matchmaking for competitive players.
35. Esports: Professional competitive gaming.
36. Toxic Behavior: Negative and disruptive player conduct.

Game Genres and Mechanics

37. RPG (Role-Playing Game): Character development, storytelling, and exploration.
38. FPS (First-Person Shooter): Fast-paced action with a first-person perspective.
39. TPS (Third-Person Shooter): Similar to FPS but with a third-person view.
40. MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena): Team-based strategy with lane-pushing and hero-based combat.
41. Battle Royale: Large-scale player-versus-player matches where the last player or team standing wins.
42. MMORPG (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game): Persistent online worlds with thousands of players.
43. Survival Game: Focus on resource management and staying alive in a hostile environment.
44. Stealth Game: Avoiding detection while completing objectives.
45. Platformer: Jumping and navigating through levels.
46. Puzzle Game: Solving logical challenges.
47. Racing Game: Competitive or casual driving experiences.
48. Sports Game: Simulating various sports.
49. Simulation Game: Realistic representation of real-world systems or activities.

Gaming Culture and Psychology

50. Grinding: Repetitive tasks to gain experience or items.
51. Loot Boxes: Randomly rewarded containers with virtual items.
52. Addiction: Excessive gaming can lead to addiction-like behaviors.
53. Social Engineering: Scammers targeting gamers for personal information.
54. Cyberbullying: Online harassment and abuse.
55. Pro Gamer: Professional video game players.
56. Streamer: Broadcasting gameplay live to an audience.
57. E-sports Athlete: A professional gamer competing in organized competitions.
58. Gaming Community: Groups of players with shared interests.
59. Game Journalism: Reporting on the video game industry.
60. Game Preservation: Efforts to archive and protect video games for future generations.

Gaming Hardware and Technology

61. VR (Virtual Reality): Immersive gaming experiences using headsets.
62. AR (Augmented Reality): Overlaying digital information on the real world.
63. Gaming Monitors: Specialized displays for gaming with high refresh rates and low response times.
64. Gaming Laptops: Portable computers optimized for gaming.
65. Gaming Peripherals: Specialized input devices like mice, keyboards, and controllers.
66. Cloud Gaming Services: Streaming games to devices without powerful hardware.
67. Game Engines: Software frameworks for creating video games.
68. Game Development: The process of creating video games.
69. Indie Games: Games developed by small, independent teams.
70. AAA Games: Large-budget games produced by major publishers.

Gaming History and Trivia

71. Pong: One of the earliest video games.
72. Pac-Man: Iconic arcade game.
73. Super Mario Bros: A groundbreaking platformer.
74. The Legend of Zelda: Pioneered open-world exploration.
75. Halo: Popularized online console gaming.
76. World of Warcraft: Massively popular MMORPG.
77. Minecraft: Creative sandbox game with a massive following.
78. Fortnite: Battle royale phenomenon with a building mechanic.
79. PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG): The original battle royale game.
80. Counter-Strike: Influential competitive FPS.

Additional Tips and Tricks

81. Experiment with Settings: Find the perfect configuration for your playstyle.
82. Watch Pro Players: Learn from the best.
83. Practice Regularly: Improve your skills through consistent play.
84. Take Breaks: Prevent burnout and maintain focus.
85. Join Gaming Communities: Connect with other players for tips and support.
86. Stay Updated: Keep up with the latest gaming news and trends.
87. Have Fun: Gaming should be enjoyable, so relax and enjoy the experience.

This list barely scratches the surface of the vast and complex world of online gaming. As technology continues to evolve, so too will the gaming landscape, offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.