Something to prove? Something to reinforce?

Quirhid

This just occurred to me so I haven't done any research on the subject, but have you noticed how much of the views expressed here seem to be in favor of the poster. What I mean is how someone might call a new game dumbed down or easy-mode compared to an older game even when the older game, implying that they are a better gamer (or smarter) for playing a an older game. Even when that game might only be trivially harder, say, the difference between having an exclamation point hovering above an NPC or manually finding it.

Similarly...

• "Instant gratification" -> "I have perseverance/patience"
• "This game is for kids" or "This game's graphics are cartoony" -> "I am a mature gamer/adult"
• "Guys playing girls are [insert your favorite provocative theory here]" -> "I am a hetero sexual man"
• "I only play games with harsh death penalties" -> "I'm hardcore"

This could all be a well documented behavior or complete and utter bullshit. What do you think?

sunandshadow

It's unfortunately common for humans to think those with different preferences are crazy, stupid, perverse, etc.  This is a pretty ignorant way of thinking, but many people never take the time to study why different people like different things, or even why they themselves like what they like.  Then, preferences become involved in social interactions to establish dominance; talking loudly in favor of your own preference puts pressure on those who disagree to stay quiet unless they are prepared to fight.  Those who agree, in doing so lend social support to the first person who expressed the opinion even though that person doesn't really have anything to do with the opinion.  Groups of people who agree form mutual-admiration cliques, patting each other on the back while mocking or even bullying those who disagree.

Xthos

Also known as someone posting their views, opinions and perceptions.   Thats what people do, I don't often see someone post to prove themselves wrong/ignorant.