General Discussion

I wonder if anyone knows about some web site that clearly and consisely explains what MMORPGs are and how the MMORPG game experience can be like? Many people not into computer games may find it funny that I spend so much time playing such games, and it would be ok to have somewhere to direct them to where they could get it explained.

I get these kind of questions from my peers as well. They keep asking why I spend so much of my time playing computer games. Honestly, All I can say is, Its fun, and entertaining. If you wish to further explain more benefits, you can put in stuff like, trains quick-thinking/quick-reaction(FPS games), trains strategic planning(RTS), train personality, ability to communicate with others more friendly and so on(MMORPG).

Trying to explain any further would be of no use. Just throw back at them the same question with their likes. E.g. Why you like to play guitar, or Why you like to do shopping? 

Though it would be nice, if I could draw them into gaming as well. Then we'd have more fun.

Lets hear some ideas from more people on how to deal with these questions.

Yes I get the same questions from 'older people' especially my aunts, uncles etc.... I'm in my mid 30's and most think I'm wasting my time in front of the pc. The best and most obvious choice is to invite them to watch you play. Let them see all aspects of the game, especially the social atmosphere. Let's face it mmorpgs force us to be social in many ways, be it crafting, fighting, questing, trading and so forth. Show them it's not just a bash fest but another world we like to get lost in and forget about real life for a while.

I think if they play WoW they'll get a fantastic idea of what the genre is like. WoW is, as far as I'm concerned, the best way for a new player to the MMOG market to start with.

"mundanes"?

What story is that from? I recall the term from somewhere.

Are they like "muggles"?

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Originally posted by Finduilas
"mundanes"?
What story is that from? I recall the term from somewhere.
Are they like "muggles"?

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umm....mundane just means ordinary, im sure its used in many "stories", lol.

I used to have to explain my various interests to people who just didn't get 'it'. I simply made the comparison between a single player game and a (massively) multiplayer game. There are a plethora of reasons: interaction on an epic scale, role-play, community, competitiveness, challenges i.e. raids, PvP, etc. The single most important element to stress is the multiplayer aspect.

I don't expect to win any converts because some people fundamentally just will not get 'it'. In the same way, that I find other hobbies excruciatingly dull i.e. people who devote their lives (and conversation) to watching reality TV.

The best way to get someone to understand is to first determine if they have an open mind and are willing to potentially revise their pre-conceived notions about MMOGs and MMOG players. If they are, all fine and dandy. Give 'em the spiel and most importantly, sit them down during a session and get them engaged i.e. actively explain what you are doing, introduce them to game concepts, the UI and give them a running commentary on the action. My friend who does get 'it', but doesn't have broadband access (as well as being scared of spending too much time on MMOGs), used to come round and watch me play EQ - especially when I grouped in Unrest.

I first got into MMOGs and played EQ due going round to see two of my friends (at the time), and then spending the next 12 hours (!) - I kid you not - watching them and being given a running commentary. Not to mention being given the Adam Sandler (spelling?) treatment by being asked to run to McDonalds to grab them something to eat. When I finally left the house, one of my friends was still bathed in the eerie glow from the monitor, trying to raise his faction by killing gnolls in that Burrow place in Qeynos Hills (Mr Alzheimer is rushing towards me with open arms).

A little off-topic, but on the subject in a round about way, I've often wondered how people explain their weird, sexual fetishes to a partner i.e. how do you introduce wishing to stick various root vegetables into their various orificies, in polite conversation?

Regards,
Riotgirl

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Originally posted by jayheld90

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Originally posted by Finduilas
"mundanes"?
What story is that from? I recall the term from somewhere.
Are they like "muggles"?

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umm....mundane just means ordinary, im sure its used in many "stories", lol.

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I KNOW what is it means.

I have read a story in which some people, with magic ability, refer to non magic people as mundanes. I think it was in the wheel of time, but not sure, Hence why I ask. I have read a LOT of fantasy and the use of the word mundane MAY be used often, but not in the context used in the title, except one, just can't remember which.

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Originally posted by Riotgirl

 how do you introduce wishing to stick various root vegetables into their various orificies, in polite conversation?

Regards,
Riotgirl

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I was going to say something relating to mmorpgs but after reading that I forgot what it was.... LMAO !!!

There was a similar discussion in dev corner.  My response to the Pay-to-play discussion is at the bottom: