METAGAMING Meaning and
Definition
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Metagaming refers to a strategy or practice that involves making decisions or taking actions in a game based on information or knowledge that is beyond the scope of the game world or its established rules. It is essentially the act of using out-of-game knowledge or information to gain an advantage in the game.
The term "metagaming" is commonly used in the context of tabletop role-playing games, video games, and competitive multiplayer games. In these games, players often engage in metagaming by using external sources such as game guides, forums, or personal discussions with other players to learn about the strengths and weaknesses of characters, strategies, or game mechanics. This allows them to formulate an optimal game plan or exploit any loopholes that may exist.
Metagaming can take various forms, such as studying the habits or tendencies of other players, exploiting previously discovered game imbalances, or using information gained from previous game experiences to inform current decisions. It often involves thinking strategically beyond the immediate context of the game and considering the larger metagame or the overall community trends and strategies.
While metagaming can be seen as a valid aspect of gameplay, it can also be controversial. Some argue that it detracts from the immersion and fairness of the game, as it introduces an element of knowledge that the players' characters would not realistically possess. Others view it as a natural extension of skill and cunning, allowing players to leverage their knowledge and adaptability to gain an edge over opponents. Ultimately, the acceptability of metagaming in a particular game largely depends on the game's community, rules, and the preferences of its players.
Etymology of METAGAMING
The word "metagaming" is a combination of two terms: "meta-" and "gaming".
The prefix "meta-" comes from the Greek word "meta", meaning "beyond", "transcending", or "about". In English, it often denotes something that is self-referential or taking a higher-level perspective.
The term "gaming" here refers to the activity of playing games, especially video games or tabletop role-playing games.
Therefore, "metagaming" refers to strategies or actions taken in a game that go beyond the immediate gameplay and involve considering external factors or utilizing knowledge outside the game world to gain an advantage. The term became particularly popular in the context of tabletop role-playing games where players may bring knowledge from outside the game to inform their decisions.
