Post #2: It's a Cultural Experience

Somewhere along the way, I learned how to say cave, airplane and bomb in six different languages. I learned that German’s speak better English than most Americans and that I liked Polish accents the best.

And… I learned that not everyone speaks my language.

Below, I’ve listed four steps to improve interactions with the “foreign” gamer. (We’re all foreign at some point aren’t we?)

1. Stop being hostile just because you can.

Rivalry between teams, clans and individuals is a healthy component to any competition. However, attacking your competitor with verbal sewage based on their ethnicity is not. I don’t know how many times I’ve joined a server and heard “Speak English you idiot” or “Learn English or leave.” I can tell you right now, that when I join a server filled with French or Germans or Russians, they don’t expect me to speak their language; they actually attempt to speak mine.

2. Attempt to understand.

Most people who game know English. However, how well they know English varies (a lot). So next time, when your “foreign” teammate is trying to give you details about where the enemy is, actually pay attention. I know it sounds like gibberish, but you’ll be surprised to discover what you do understand.

3. Learn to say hello.

I’ve never met a gamer that doesn’t know the meaning of or how to say “hello.” So say hello, even if they’re not American or British. I would even take it one step further. Learn to say “hello” in German, French, Russian, Spanish, Croatian and Polish (most common gaming nations I’ve seen). They will appreciate it. They will laugh at how terribly you butchered the word. And they will ask to become your friend on Steam. Guaranteed.

4. Invite foreigners into your clan.

This does several things: A. Broadens your range of clans to spar with. Suddenly, you not only have clans from the US to game with, but all of your new German member’s European clans too. B. You’ll find the cultural experience enlightening. (I know this sounds dumb, but I promise you will.) C. You’ll be helping your new foreign member gain valuable skills in English — something they will appreciate more than you realize.

I know this all sounds so basic… and it is. So be a smart, multi-cultural gamer and remember these four steps.