Nefarious Means

I'm up to no good. I want to get that out of the way right from the beginning, just so there are no questions later.

Author: madeux

I solo quite a bit.  When I'm in a hurry and can't wait for a group.  When I'm just not in the mood.  When it's an easy quest and I don't want to bother others who don't need it.

I also group up quite a bit.  When I play with friends.  When guild members need help.  When I can't do something on my own.  When I'm in a hurry and it would take too long to do it alone. When I'm bored and can help someone else out and I've got nothing better to do.

I read often from people getting upset at those who start in a group and then have to leave.  I hate it too, and even more I hate being that person.  So my answer to that is to solo... of course, then I have to hear from people complaining that solo players are ruining their game.

Games can, and do, offer a combination of solo and group play.   These are virtual "worlds", right?  And in the real world, people choose to do some things alone, and some things in group.

Let's take mountain climbing.  Thousands of people can all decide to climb the same mountain.  Some people will choose to take a trail, either alone or with some friends.  Some will show up with friends while others will just walk up and enjoy a friendly conversation with however else might be on the path.  Others will group up in order to take a more adventurous route, even going so far as to tether themselves together for safety.  Others may go right for a flat face of the mountain, facing it one on one for a good climb.  Friends may be there, at the bottom or top, offering encouragement or advice, but when it comes down to it, their on their own.  And some may just hang out in a wooded meadow at the base of the mountain, cooking, playing games, or singing songs around a campfire.

It's one mountain, with so many ways to enjoy it.  Is there any need for the rock climbers to bash those on the trail for not enjoying the mountain properly?  Well, that would just be stupid and mean, right?  Just as there is no need for those at the campfire to mock and tease those that are risking their lives on top of the mountain while seeking a sense of accomplishment.

And there's certainly no need to criticize the God who created the mountain for adding all of these great features that let everyone get some enjoyment.