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Are you ashamed of being a gamer/nerd in public?
- Thread starter Booker.DeWitt
- Start date
velociraptor
Junior Member
I find most games to now be a shallow experience.
Maybe Uncharted 4 will change that. Or at least I hope.
I've been waiting Bloodborne to drop in price for a long time and it still hasn't. I do look forward to playing that game during Christmas though.
Rapscallion
Member
Be who you're going to be. Don't let others expectations change how you live your life.
Pejo
Gold Member
I definitely don't mention it to people. When/if I find someone else likes games though, I'll do some general inquiry to see where they stand in gaming. 99% of the time it's like "I like Madden" or "I like Mario Kart". I don't think I've ever met anyone that said anything outside the realm of million+ sellers.
When people find out I like games, I mostly respond the same way though, so I get it.
Also, I think I carry myself differently and care a lot more than I should about public opinion because I work in IT. You always have that stigma about being a dork that likes video games and hates the sun that you just don't want to be associated with.
When people find out I like games, I mostly respond the same way though, so I get it.
Also, I think I carry myself differently and care a lot more than I should about public opinion because I work in IT. You always have that stigma about being a dork that likes video games and hates the sun that you just don't want to be associated with.
Deal!
So how do we do this? We exchange info? We IM? Twitter? Email? Pen Pals?
Definitely get on that when you can. Easily one of the meatiest gaming experiences to come along in quite some time.
The admittedly part. It seems like bad phrasing meant to convey that it was not his own opinion. It's not like the OP called himself a man child, so it wouldn't fit otherwise.
Oh sorry, I was talking about the OP.
LapinAgile
Member
Sounds like you're just judgement prone in general. It's not projection it's participation.
anothertech
Member
Oh I'll explain.
It's a parkour gym, not crossfit. And it's kinda got a stigma similar to skaters and gamers. There are actually 'no parkour' signs beginning to be put on courthouses and public buildings n such. Look parkour or free running up on YouTube for more info. Ppl snub their noses at us regularly for running and playing on park equipment at our local parks and rec places that usually only little kids play on.
And no. Gaming doesn't get in the way of my training unless I allow it to. Midnight releases are actually fairly sparse where I live, and once in a while witcher3 or smash bros might keep me up later than it should but I sleep very little anyhow.
I'm definitely an undercover gamer.
Good job. Getting married to an absolute stunner in 3 weeks time. I play semi professional football here in England (tier 7). I was a club rep in ayia napa for 2 years. And Always have been considered a 'cool guy'.
None of my real life friends are gamers so I don't talk to them about it.
So they don't know.
I love gamers and I'll always be one. But the circles I grew up around weren't into that so it's caused me to hide it and probably be apprehensive about mentioning it.
Good job. Getting married to an absolute stunner in 3 weeks time. I play semi professional football here in England (tier 7). I was a club rep in ayia napa for 2 years. And Always have been considered a 'cool guy'.
None of my real life friends are gamers so I don't talk to them about it.
So they don't know.
I love gamers and I'll always be one. But the circles I grew up around weren't into that so it's caused me to hide it and probably be apprehensive about mentioning it.
eh I think he's being honest and I get where he's coming from
I wouldnt give people a weird look about the stuff they like, but i'd definetly have an opinion about someone who is constantly projecting media and (like I said) basing their whole personality or outside persona on some specific thing someone makes and they just like
id never treat them differently or anything, but I personally think there's ussually a level of maturity attached to that sorta thing and an eventual realization that you're a much more complex person than a reflection of what you enjoy and that "participation" becomes kind of an invitation to be seen a bit shallow
above all that tho i'll always have a "people can do whatever they want as long as it doesnt hurt others" and thats all dandy, just my personal opinion on how I apply it to my own self
Gaming is still kind of a negative stereotype in many ways because there's a perceived lack of value being gotten with video games. I think the same stigma is somewhat attached to movie and TV buffs -- they aren't seen as useful hobbies in comparison to something like reading or exercise.
I personally don't judge how people spend their free time as long as it isn't taken to the extreme, but I understand why there is an idea out there that gaming is not as acceptable a hobby as other hobbies out there. I don't agree, except in the extreme cases where it takes over the identity so much that it creates a deficit in other regular functioning areas.
That being said, I don't wear gaming T-shirts or otherwise wear my gaming on my sleeve, so maybe I do care to some extent that I'm not associated with gaming on a superficial level. I have no problem telling people that I play video games if it comes up in conversation though.
I personally don't judge how people spend their free time as long as it isn't taken to the extreme, but I understand why there is an idea out there that gaming is not as acceptable a hobby as other hobbies out there. I don't agree, except in the extreme cases where it takes over the identity so much that it creates a deficit in other regular functioning areas.
That being said, I don't wear gaming T-shirts or otherwise wear my gaming on my sleeve, so maybe I do care to some extent that I'm not associated with gaming on a superficial level. I have no problem telling people that I play video games if it comes up in conversation though.
Roufianos
Member
Not really. I have a Torchic keyring even though I'm 22 and I'm not at all embarrassed of it.
Still though, as much as I love gaming, it doesn't have much influence on my real world experiences. I wouldn't wear gaming t-shirts simply because I have nicer clothes to wear.
I also don't tend to talk much about games with my non-gamer friends just because it's only natural for us to talk about what we have in common.
Still though, as much as I love gaming, it doesn't have much influence on my real world experiences. I wouldn't wear gaming t-shirts simply because I have nicer clothes to wear.
I also don't tend to talk much about games with my non-gamer friends just because it's only natural for us to talk about what we have in common.
Raonak
Banned
Ashamed? Fuck No.
Gaming isn't something to hide anymore, majority of guys my age (23) play games often. If I meet a dude for the first time, i'm eventually gonna ask them "Do you play games?", more often than not; it's a yes.
I don't really have much gaming inspired clothing, but i have no quams wearing it.
Plus I do game development as a hobby, and am super proud of the games im making.
Granted, it's probably a bit different for older people.
Gaming isn't something to hide anymore, majority of guys my age (23) play games often. If I meet a dude for the first time, i'm eventually gonna ask them "Do you play games?", more often than not; it's a yes.
I don't really have much gaming inspired clothing, but i have no quams wearing it.
Plus I do game development as a hobby, and am super proud of the games im making.
Granted, it's probably a bit different for older people.
OK. Thanks for the explanation.
I'm glad you're able to do something you obviously enjoy with Parkour but surely you understand the misgivings the general public have about it? Especially with the history Surfing, Skateboarding, Snowboarding and other action sports have?
Coinspinner
Member
Not in public, just in front of my parents.
BoilersFan23
Member
I wear video game and anime t-shirts to work and anywhere in public. I am also a cosplayer at anime/video game/comic conventions and even cosplayed in public at malls. I do not care what anyone thinks of me.
KillerDark
Member
Hell no, its nothing to be ashamed/embarrassed about.
Zxrophantom
Member
No, i don't feel ashamed with gaming or being called a gamer. I don't go around advertising i'm a gamer or anything but if you hang out with me you will see my gaming roots. I try to be well - rounded and respectful to people who are not interested in games. So i can talk with the best of them about games but if no one around me is into games you may not notice i play games.
Stormwatch
Member
I am 1 day older than the OP and I can say that I'm not personally ashamed of myself being a gamer/nerd. But, I do think that some other gamers/nerds give us a bad name. I've been to similar events where there was an influx of mouth breathing smelly stereotypical nerds and I felt bad being associated with them. I proudly wear gaming shirts and talk to other friends about gaming, though.
hersheyfan
Member
Not ashamed, per se... It's well known among my (non-gaming friends and office staff that I'm a huge gamer, and I have no problems whipping out the Vita or 3DS when out and about.
That said, I find that even when people bring up the subject of games, I tend to respond with platitudes instead of really going into depth... For instance:
Our IT guy: (notices PlayStation lanyard) Hey boss, you play games? Noticed your ID strap.
Me: Yeah, I do! PS4, mostly.
ITG: Really, me too! So what have you been playing?
Me: Uhhh... (first recent big-selling game that comes to mind) Witcher III, I think? But I haven't had time to game much lately, busy with work.
Then I steer the conversation somewhere else. I keep the game talk only for close friends who I KNOW are as obsessive about games as I am.
That said, I find that even when people bring up the subject of games, I tend to respond with platitudes instead of really going into depth... For instance:
Our IT guy: (notices PlayStation lanyard) Hey boss, you play games? Noticed your ID strap.
Me: Yeah, I do! PS4, mostly.
ITG: Really, me too! So what have you been playing?
Me: Uhhh... (first recent big-selling game that comes to mind) Witcher III, I think? But I haven't had time to game much lately, busy with work.
Then I steer the conversation somewhere else. I keep the game talk only for close friends who I KNOW are as obsessive about games as I am.
MrRudiMentary
Member
I'm aware that advertising my "geek/nerd cred" can be insufferable to some people so I tone myself down based on my company, but no, I'm rarely actually ashamed. That said I am 18 - I don't have anything to be ashamed of.
anothertech
Member
Oh definitely get the misgivings. And I think it stems directly from a lack of intelligence and social ignorance inherent in many individuals. Kinda like judging a book on its cover or stereotyping by skin color and all that.
Anyone worth a dam in my book is better than that, and I'm happy to put distance between those individuals and myself. As much as possible
ShemhazaiX
Member
Eh, I literally turn up to work and the gym in an Alvina (Dark Souls) t-shirt. I literally couldn't give two shits whether people judge me for it. It's like complaining that people are wearing band t-shirts or football shirts. It's interesting though, that I've never seen a more self-loathing group of people than gaming fans.
For reference, these are the gaming shirts I own (second is in grey rather than red):
Both of these I have no qualms about wearing in public if I'm feeling super casual. Wouldn't wear them on a date or anything, but then I do have fashion sense.
For reference, these are the gaming shirts I own (second is in grey rather than red):
Both of these I have no qualms about wearing in public if I'm feeling super casual. Wouldn't wear them on a date or anything, but then I do have fashion sense.
Yes, somewhat. I hate being a geek in general, and it irritates me how much I know of video games and feel confident to talk about them.
It's bad to the point where I pretend not to know much about gaming in some circumstances around others.
I think it's a result of retrospectively wondering how awkward I must of been in other people's perspectives -- and likewise having met some people on my degree who wear Sonic badges and cannot shut the fuck up about their gaming wisdom.
It's bad to the point where I pretend not to know much about gaming in some circumstances around others.
I think it's a result of retrospectively wondering how awkward I must of been in other people's perspectives -- and likewise having met some people on my degree who wear Sonic badges and cannot shut the fuck up about their gaming wisdom.
Apollo Cree
Member
Nope. I automatically assume that people saying they're judged in public for playing video games have a shortcoming in another part of their personality.
Considering most of my friends are girls who are into fashion and partying; a bit yeah. I wouldn't necessarily be ashamed, but I'd be annoyed since they probably have some weird misconception about people who play games and would constantly bring it up at random times. Never really advertise the fact I'm hugely into video games so they don't really know. I'd especially never wear a gaudy video game tee either, but that's more to do with my dislike of graphics tees (they make you a walking advertisement).
HerroRygar
Member
Yeah, honestly I'm ashamed. I'm 28, married, spend lots of time with friends and have an excellent job, but I still feel stung by the criticism that playing games is childish and for loners. I don't mention my gaming habits unless I'm around people I know pretty well who already like me. If the subject comes up around people I don't know that well, I try to deflect or use self-deprecating humor, which is stupid.
I wish I could just be a confident adult.
I wish I could just be a confident adult.
Dr. Black Jack
Member
Am I ashamed of my gaming hobby? No.
Do I outwardly express or talk about my gaming hobby in public? Mostly no.
Do I outwardly express or talk about my gaming hobby in public? Mostly no.
thelastcrusader
Banned
Shoulda been 1st post.
I tell everyone I played videogames in my underwear all weekend with my wife. Idgaf.
If they ask me I try and explain. I'm also a guy that wears a Goki styled jacket out, and TMNT and Batman onesies to work. I'm a project manager and my clients all know I'm eccentric. Behind my desk? Bigass Batman and a Spiderman snuggy. Be yourself.
Coffee Dog
Banned
Of course not. But then again, I also have the self control to not ramble on about shit that nobody wants to listen to.
SuperEpicGuy
Banned
Well buying a game is one thing and buying a nintendo doll is different. Regardless, I stopped caring about what people think of me and just enjoy doing what I want.
Absolutely not. I don't brag about it or say it out loud, but I'm not afraid to occasionally show my love of videogames, like when someone asks me what my favorite hobby is, I'll answer accordingly. Being a gamer is just a part of me at this point, and I'm happy about it, as it's something I enjoy and love.
The Shadow
Member
The only time I really feel ashamed is if some other obvious "gamer" is acting like an ass in the immediate vicinity.
OP:
I tend to think any feeling that people are looking down on you are probably just in your head. Gaming is pretty common now. Back in my day (yeah, I'm going there), gaming was truly a niche hobby of the coke bottle glasses, pocket protectors, and head-strap retainer variety. Now it's like not a big deal.
OP:
I tend to think any feeling that people are looking down on you are probably just in your head. Gaming is pretty common now. Back in my day (yeah, I'm going there), gaming was truly a niche hobby of the coke bottle glasses, pocket protectors, and head-strap retainer variety. Now it's like not a big deal.
I use to a bit, but kind of don't anymore. I'm not yelling about games everywhere I go, but a lot of my regular shirts are now games or anime related. I try to only get things that I think are cool or look neat though. I use to wear a lot of average grey/white/black shirts since I disliked logos, but now I've just gotten shit without a lot of writing and shit most of the time.
Today I wore a Beowulf Skullgirls tee and had my Aperture messenger bag while out. Tomorrow I'll wear a Gurren Lagann tee or Paranoia Agent shirt or some other garbage I have. I also think a kid might of yelled out a school bus window at me and told me I had a nice backpack, but fuck if I can clearly hear what a kid is saying while he's going 20 MPH past me and I have headphones in.
I might start playing my 3DS or Vita on the public bus, but I need something that's good for a regular 1 hour commute. I might just finally start 3D Land or something. I don't think I could play something like Kid Icarus reliably considering the bumpy ride.
Either way, games are one my favorite hobbies so I like having owning shirts or things that I'm a fan of since I just like them a lot. If this sparks up a conversation with someone I wouldn't really mind it unless I have no common grounds with the person besides them knowing what my shirts from.
I also went to buy the Retro Amiibo Pack like an earlier poster in the thread. Some guys brought a big TV with a Wii U and Smash so that was neat. It made a lot of people feel more relaxed and not as weird to be at a Gamestop at 8 am. Didn't really get any looks from what I remember.
Today I wore a Beowulf Skullgirls tee and had my Aperture messenger bag while out. Tomorrow I'll wear a Gurren Lagann tee or Paranoia Agent shirt or some other garbage I have. I also think a kid might of yelled out a school bus window at me and told me I had a nice backpack, but fuck if I can clearly hear what a kid is saying while he's going 20 MPH past me and I have headphones in.
I might start playing my 3DS or Vita on the public bus, but I need something that's good for a regular 1 hour commute. I might just finally start 3D Land or something. I don't think I could play something like Kid Icarus reliably considering the bumpy ride.
Either way, games are one my favorite hobbies so I like having owning shirts or things that I'm a fan of since I just like them a lot. If this sparks up a conversation with someone I wouldn't really mind it unless I have no common grounds with the person besides them knowing what my shirts from.
I also went to buy the Retro Amiibo Pack like an earlier poster in the thread. Some guys brought a big TV with a Wii U and Smash so that was neat. It made a lot of people feel more relaxed and not as weird to be at a Gamestop at 8 am. Didn't really get any looks from what I remember.
MissCauthon
Member
No, I have in the past and regret it especially around guy gamers. For some reason it makes them act weird with me. In some cases if i'd join a conversation the guys would do 1 of 2 things.
Either look at me and go "you could see it in their eyes" shut up girl or they would become complete pervs and act dumb simply because i am a girl gamer.
Ever since then, no i never mention that i play games to friends and avoid turning my headset in games (now that's a different story entirely).
PS. before i get a barrage of hate, not all guys are like that yes i know.
Either look at me and go "you could see it in their eyes" shut up girl or they would become complete pervs and act dumb simply because i am a girl gamer.
Ever since then, no i never mention that i play games to friends and avoid turning my headset in games (now that's a different story entirely).
PS. before i get a barrage of hate, not all guys are like that yes i know.
MissCauthon
Member
That's......really unfortunate. I'm sorry that that's what you have to deal with.
It's ok, i got you virtual friends on gaf where i can talk about games
Xaero Gravity
NEXT LEVEL lame™
Only if the people in question know of the whole waifu shit some people obsess over and think all gamers are like that.
Which is really curious.
I mean, I don't really hear the same things with sports fans, or book fans, or others.
I don't want to generalize and stereotype but really, sometimes I have these notions of those kinds of "gamers". Suffice to say, I assume you're talking about young tween/teen gamers as well.
NinjamicWZ
Banned
It's ok to be in your head, but don't get lost in there. It's also extremely wise to not be a fully open book whether with jobs, new people etc but anything else? Fuck 'em, whatever's relevant is what you're thinking/doing. Especially with your son and all that you've accomplished in your life to get where you are today, you have absolutely nothing to be ashamed of. Every civilized person on this planet is doing or enjoying something that's relatively pointless and silly in the grand scheme of things.
GeordieMark
Member
No, I'm not ashamed but I don't like to flaunt the fact I play games, or mention it much to people, even some friends. Main reason is that they will inevitably ask about the game I've been playing and within milliseconds of the first word of explanation coming from my mouth, their eyes glaze over, and I'm left feeling like a boring geek. Luckily my get out is that I work for a studio and when I tell people, games become somewhat more socially acceptable and interesting to them for some reason.
GloriousBagel
Banned
Idgaf about what people think about me. I just do what I do.
HueyFreeman
Banned
MD GAF unite!
I don't engage with people or spontaneously offer about my hobby, but I'll engage with people who want to engage about it. At work - I honestly find talking about it causes more issues than not due to preconceived perceptions about it, so I generally avoid it.
What an awful post - let people enjoy what they want to enjoy the way they want to enjoy it.
Please let us know what developer you're with so I can never buy your games.