Esports has taken the world by storm, growing rapidly from niche tournaments to a billion-dollar global industry. Millions of players and fans immerse themselves in competitive gaming, and with its rise in popularity comes a unique blend of language and culture. If you’re new to the scene, you might feel a little lost when others throw out terms like “GLHF,” “AoE,” or “CC.”
This guide is here to help. We’ll break down the essential codes of EtrueSports (esports) so you can confidently step into competitive gaming, understand the lingo, and communicate like a pro.
Understanding Basic Esports Codes
Every community comes with its own language, and esports is no exception. Let’s start with the fundamentals that every new player or fan should know.
GG (Good Game)
‘GG’ is the hallmark of sportsmanship in esports. Used at the end of a match, it shows respect for your opponents, regardless of the outcome. For example, if you just lost a tough game but acknowledge your opponent’s skills, typing “GG” is a way of saying, “Well played.” Pro tip: Avoid using “GG EZ” or “GG noobs” to tease your opponents—that’s considered bad etiquette.
GLHF (Good Luck, Have Fun)
Just as “GG” wraps up a game on a positive note, “GLHF” is used before a match begins, setting a friendly tone. It signals mutual respect and encourages players to enjoy the competition, no matter how serious the stakes are.
AFK (Away From Keyboard)
If a player is inactive during a game, they are often referred to as “AFK.” This term is crucial because an AFK player can impact the flow of the match. Communicate clearly with your team if you need to step away temporarily—but avoid making a habit of going AFK in competitive matches.
Advanced Esports Codes and Jargon
Once you’re comfortable with the basics, it’s time to explore slightly more advanced terms used during games. These often relate to strategies and mechanics used in specific titles.
DPS (Damage Per Second)
Primarily used in role-playing and team-based games, DPS refers to the damage output a character or weapon can consistently deal in a short period. For instance, in games like Overwatch or World of Warcraft, “Who’s running DPS?” is a way of asking who will handle damage-dealing responsibilities in the match.
CC (Crowd Control)
Crowd control, or “CC,” refers to abilities or moves that disable or limit an opponent’s actions, such as stuns, roots, or silences. For example, casting a “stun” spell in League of Legends would be considered a CC move to hold an enemy in place.
AoE (Area of Effect)
AoE abilities impact multiple targets within a specific area. Think of explosions, fireballs, or spells that damage all characters in proximity. Games like Final Fantasy XIV often use AoE as a key mechanic during crucial battles.
Ganking
Often used in team strategy games like Dota 2 or League of Legends, ganking refers to ambushing an enemy player by surprising them with a team attack.
Frag
Popular in first-person shooter (FPS) games such as Counter-Strike and Call of Duty, “frag” or “fragging” is another term for eliminating an opponent in battle.
Communication Etiquette
While understanding the codes and jargon is essential, knowing how to communicate properly within the esports community is just as important. Good communication fosters teamwork and ensures a positive experience for everyone.
Best Practices for Esports Communication
- Be Clear and Concise: Whether relaying strategies or information during matches, aim for quick, clear communication to avoid confusion.
- Use Pings When Necessary: Many games offer ping systems to mark locations, alert teammates, or draw attention to objectives. Use these tools wisely to avoid spamming.
- Stay Calm Under Pressure: Heated moments can spark frustration, but keeping a level head shows maturity and professionalism.
- Respect Others: Mistakes happen. Avoid blaming teammates and support them instead.
Promoting Sportsmanlike Conduct
Leaders in the esports community advocate for inclusivity and respect. Whether you’re playing casually or competitively, treat every participant with kindness and professionalism. Avoid toxic behavior like name-calling, trash-talking, or rage-quitting.
Resources for Further Learning
Want to deepen your knowledge of esports? Here are some fantastic resources to help you stay up to date and build your connection to the community.
Communities and Forums
- Reddit (r/esports): A hub for discussions on games, strategies, and tournaments.
- Discord Servers: Look for game-specific or general esports-related servers for real-time chats and updates with fellow enthusiasts.
Websites and Blogs
- Liquipedia (liquipedia.net): A go-to resource for esports tournaments, teams, and players.
- Esports Observer (esportsobserver.com): Stay updated on the latest insights into the esports business world.
Educational Tools
- Twitch (twitch.tv): Follow esports streams and study how professional players communicate and perform.
- Game-Specific Training Modes: Many games include sandbox or training modes to improve your skills.
Gain Confidence in the Esports Arena
Stepping into the world of esports can be overwhelming, but mastering the essential codes and communication etiquette is the perfect place to start. By understanding common terms like GG, DPS, and AoE, and knowing the importance of respectful interaction, you’ll not only improve your gaming experience but also become a valued member of the community.
What esports term do you wish you’d known sooner? Share with us in the comments below or tag someone who’s ready to join the EtrueSports revolution!
Conclusion
Esports is more than just gaming—it’s a rapidly growing community driven by passion, competition, and collaboration. By familiarizing yourself with the basic terminology, communication practices, and culture, you can jumpstart your esports journey and thrive in this exciting world. Whether you’re a player, fan, or just curious, there’s always room to learn, connect, and enjoy everything esports has to offer. Remember, the key to success is to stay informed and always be respectful.
FAQs
Q1. What does GG mean in esports?
GG stands for “Good Game.” It’s a term commonly used at the end of a match to show sportsmanship and acknowledge the effort put in by all participants.
Q2. How can I get started in esports?
Begin by choosing a game you enjoy and learning the basics of its mechanics and terminology. Practice regularly, connect with the community, and explore opportunities like tournaments and team play.
Q3. Are there esports games for beginners?
Yes! Many games like Rocket League, Fortnite, and League of Legends can be beginner-friendly with tutorials and casual play modes to help you ease into the experience.
Q4. What is DPS and why is it important?
DPS stands for “Damage Per Second” and it’s a measure of how much damage a character or weapon deals over time. Understanding DPS is crucial for strategy and team composition in many esports games.
Q5. How can I learn more about esports culture?
Stay active in online forums, watch live streams, follow esports events, and engage with other players to immerse yourself in the culture and keep up with trends.
Have more questions? Drop them below or reach out to us to learn more about esports and how to elevate your gaming experience!
