‘Before You Buy’ video games checklist
Make informed decisions about game content for children and young people.
Core gaming terms
Terms you'll often hear in everyday gaming discussions.
Used to indicate when a player is temporarily unavailable or not actively playing. While originally referring to computer gaming, it’s now used across all gaming platforms.
Example: A player might type “AFK” in the chat during a match to let teammates know they need to step away briefly.
Refers to an improvement made by developers to enhance the power or effectiveness of a character, item, or ability.
Example: After feedback from players, a game’s developers increased the strength of a mage’s fireball attack, making the character more competitive.
Describes when a game developer reduces the power or effectiveness of a character, item, or ability to balance gameplay.
Example: A powerful sword was made less effective in a game update to ensure it didn’t give players using it an unfair advantage.
Describes any element of a game that is considered too strong or gives players using it an unfair edge.
Example: A new weapon in a game was widely regarded as OP because it allowed players to win matches effortlessly.
Refers to the chance-based elements in games, where outcomes are determined by luck rather than skill.
Example: A player opening a treasure chest in a game might rely on RNG to determine whether they receive a rare or common item.
Money and purchases
Understanding the financial aspects of modern gaming.
A progression system allowing players to unlock exclusive rewards by completing challenges within a specific time frame.
Example: A player purchases a battle pass and works toward completing its challenges before it expires to earn unique in-game rewards.
Small purchases made within a game using real money to unlock additional content, features or customisation options. These can include:
- Cosmetic items (like character outfits)
- Virtual currency
- Loot boxes (randomised reward containers)
- Power-ups or advantages
Example: A player might spend real money to buy new outfits or character upgrades through microtransactions.
Describes games where spending real money provides significant advantages over other players.
Example: A game offering premium weapons that outclass free ones is often criticised for being P2W.
Social gaming and streaming
Terms related to online interaction and content creation.
A temporary account created to try out new strategies or experiment without impacting a player’s main account.
Example: A player uses a burner account to test high-risk tactics in a competitive game.
Someone who broadcasts their gameplay live online, often while engaging with viewers through chat.
Example: A popular streamer might share their strategies for winning a difficult game level while interacting with their audience in real-time.
Refers to a highly competitive player who puts maximum effort into winning, sometimes to an excessive degree.
Example: In casual matches, players sometimes face opponents labeled as “sweats” because of their intense focus and skill level.
Want to deepen your understanding?
Join thousands of parents and professionals we've trained to support children and young people. Our free workshops give you the knowledge and confidence to prevent the harms of gaming and gambling.
Need immediate support?
If you're concerned about a young person experiencing gaming or gambling harms, support is available.