There’s a range of individual benefits that can come from playing games, including improved concentration and critical thinking skills. However, in most modern games, you’re playing against other people, and that means it’s competitive.
Regardless of the game you play, be it poker, League of Legends, or anything else, you’ll likely have to put some hours in getting up to speed if you’re going to be competitive when playing. Given the number of people playing games out there, it’s just not realistic that a newcomer can join an online game and expect to compete without doing their homework first.
Happily, there are a bunch of ways that gamers can give themselves an edge and increase their chances of success at their chosen game. Let’s take a look at some of the most effective methods.
Learn the Game Inside Out
You don’t need to know every rule and facet of your chosen game before you begin playing. Some aspects you’ll learn through doing. However, you’ll find it easier to be competitive if you get up to speed with the rules and gameplay as soon as possible. After all, it’s much easier to focus on how to play when you’re not constantly asking fellow players about the fundamentals of the game! If you’re playing poker, having an in-depth understanding of the poker hands ranking list from best to worst will allow you to quickly determine whether you have a hand worth pursuing or not. If you’re playing League of Legends, then learning the map will help with your performance. Ultimately, the more you know, the better you’ll play! And talking of “the more you know”…
Spend Time Studying
Directly playing your chosen game will be the best teacher you have, but it shouldn’t be the only teacher. Most players of complex games, such as chess and poker, spend zero time studying the game, and that puts them at a serious disadvantage. After all, knowledge is power! By dedicating a few hours per week to studying your game, you’ll naturally uncover tips and tricks that can help take your game to the next level.
Note that studying doesn’t necessarily mean having to read chess or poker-related books. In this day and age, there are countless ways to learn. If you’re not a reader, then look at learning via podcasts, teaching videos, or simply by watching professional players and making notes.
The Art of Perception
Most gamers spend at least some time analyzing their strengths. But remember: you’re not just playing to your strengths, but also to your opponent’s weaknesses. However, you’ll only be able to do that if you know what they are! You can learn a lot — really, a lot — by observing how other people play, and seeing what you can exploit. That’ll help in chess, poker, sports games, and a host of others.
And on that note, remember that you’re not invisible either. Tidying up your weaknesses will ensure you don’t give your opponents too much to capitalize on.
Control Your Environment
There are many elements of game-playing beyond your control. But there are also plenty within your control, too. For instance, you’ll probably find that you can play better — and for longer — if you have a comfortable gaming space. At the bare minimum, look at adding a comfortable desk and chair; they’ll come in handy for long playing sessions.
Invest in Overall Wellbeing
You won’t be able to play like a professional gamer when you first get started, but you can follow some of the habits that help to make them so good. Professional gamers invest heavily in their overall well-being, and that’s for a very simple reason: it helps to perform at their highest level. It’s easier to make the right decision when you’re mentally sharp and alert, which is just what exercise, eating well, and meditation all provide. So look at following healthy habits — it might just lead to a subtle but noticeable improvement in your game (and, of course, in other areas of your life too!).
