Most Popular Gaming Slang You Should Know

The language of games has its own language composed entirely of slang, which not only makes it more fun but provides more effective means for people from various corners of the globe to chat together. Whether you’re shooting dice or playing a quick round of multiplayer games, familiarize yourself with these popular phrases and cut down on possible misunderstandings. (Not to mention—come out ahead!) Below are some of the most common gaming slang to know (that is, you must know to really get into the groove of gaming), with a focus on the well-loved video poker variation Jacks or Better.

GG, GGWP, GLH: Good Game, Good Play

At some point in your online gaming journey (be it in any game for that matter, because you’d hear this a lot), you’ve no doubt seen “GG” (short for “Good Game”) appended to the end of a match—it’s a sign of good sportsmanship

Slightly advanced from there is “GGWP” (Good Game, Well Played), which carries a bit more formality. You’ll also often start out a game with “GLHF” (Good Luck, Have Fun), wishing everybody involved a good time. These are not just fillers; they set the mood and create a positive playing environment for all involved.

RNG: Embracing Luck and Unpredictability

“RNG” (Random Number Generator) plays a vital role in any game where luck is a factor. It determines such things as the roulette wheel’s turning speed, battlefield results, or how many cards you get dealt in poker. Players will complain of “bad RNG” when luck goes against them or feel “you got RNGed” if outcomes seem unfair. RNG keeps things fresh and exciting; indeed, this is the fun in not knowing what will come next.

Jacks or Better: A Video Poker Favourite

The goal is simple (that is, to the point where you may even enjoy having a recreational play at hand): Make a poker hand that has at least a pair of jacks or better. For novices to old hands who love both traditional poker and design, this is an ideal choice. Playing Jacks or Better online eliminates the need for dealing with any complicated strategies, and it is also suitable for all levels of skills. The blend of luck and skill keeps things interesting; it’s a twist on traditional poker that you’ll find refreshing.

FTW, GG EZ, and Kappa: A Way to Expose Gaming Heart

Signs of self-assurance abound in gameplay, such as “FTW” (For The Win) written when success is seen on the horizon. You may also see “GG EZ,” a subtle cue any good player gives when they win about getting too tired with what should either be an easy closeout or something even more vital for their future endeavors. 

Then there is “Kappa,” a popular term on Twitch that indicates sarcasm. As an inside joke as well; if someone writes “Kappa” at the end of a sentence, they are probably being playful or ironic. These terms not only put interest and variety into gameplay, they also express the tenacity that makes online gaming memorable.

Buffs, Nerfs, and Grinding

In games, a “buff” refers to boosting a character or weapon, while a “nerf” means to bring down the power of something holding too much sway. Keeping abreast of these buffs and nerfs is essential to devise effective strategies. “Grinding,” on the other hand, refers to spending time doing repetitive tasks in order to level up or earn in-game money. In role-playing games especially, where grinding is de rigueur for progress and knowledge can be power, knowing these terms will do you good.

Lag, Noob, and Frag: The Trials and Tribulations of Gaming

Still, lag is an adversary of each gamer, it is the delay generated by substandard internet and it is a damnable thing. “Noob”, on the other hand, is the name for a brand new or very inexperienced player; it can be used as both gentle ribbing and something else entirely. But what is “Frag”? 

A win–a kill in shooters such as Counter-Strike, where people strive to be the team or individual with the most frags on one map. It’s also possible that time spent fighting dragons or raiding liches might get one called a “dragster” and those types of accolades will certainly help you get back at any loser who’s snipe-picked your kill across 56 rounds without ever having to do it himself. 

The term is similar in feel to “Smurfing”: deliberately dropping your ranking or creating alternate accounts for competitive games like League of Legends and StarCraft, with the intention of beating lower-ranked players. But don’t just take my word for it; get out there and play some games yourself—and see if you can dominate The King Destroyer!

The Meaning of Gaming Slang

Naturally, once you get the hang of the gaming lingo you find that life gets pretty interesting. Next time you’re on Skype, Instagram or in WhatsApp and want to leave your friends a message, they’ll have no choice but to understand, pull out one of these words and see what happens. 

From grinding to fragging, this slang keeps you plugged in and gives multiplayer gaming gamers a common language—all making it even easier and better for everyone to engage together.

 

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