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.
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