What Does Meta Mean in Gaming?
Gaming is full of different terminology and it is ever expanding, so it can be quite difficult to keep track especially because some games have different terminology than others. So what exactly does “meta” mean in gaming?
Understanding Meta
The term “meta” in gaming is derived from “metagame,” which essentially means “the game beyond the game.” In competitive gaming contexts, “meta” refers to the most effective strategies, characters, items, or tactics at any given time, which are often determined by the community or professional players. These strategies can include character picks, item builds, or particular playstyles that are currently dominant in achieving victory.
The term “meta” isn’t an acronym, although it’s commonly suggested to stand for “Most Effective Tactics Available” (M.E.T.A). This backronym helps to clarify its purpose but isn’t its etymological origin. Instead, “meta” comes from the Greek word meaning “beyond” or “after,” signifying that it’s about strategies or knowledge that go beyond the immediate gameplay mechanics.
Where did the expression come from?
The meta in games like “League of Legends,” “Dota 2,” or “Overwatch” changes frequently due to updates, patches, or shifts in player strategies. Developers often adjust game balance through “nerfing” (weakening) or “buffing” (strengthening) certain elements, which can shift the meta. For instance, if a character becomes overly powerful, developers might nerf them, changing the meta where players then adapt to new strategies.
Other popular gaming expressions
- Nerf/Buff:
- Nerf: When a game character, item, or mechanic is made less powerful to balance gameplay. For example, if a weapon in “Fortnite” is too effective, it might be nerfed to reduce its damage or range.
- Buff: Conversely, making something stronger or more useful in the game. If a champion in “League of Legends” is underperforming, developers might buff their abilities to increase their viability.
- GG (Good Game):
- Often used at the end of a match to show sportsmanship, acknowledging that the game was well played. It can be sincere or ironic, depending on the context. This term is ubiquitous across many gaming platforms.
- PvP (Player vs. Player):
- Refers to gameplay modes where players compete against each other rather than against computer-controlled enemies (PvE – Player vs. Environment). PvP is central to many multiplayer games and often where the meta is most discussed.
- AFK (Away From Keyboard):
- Indicates that a player is not actively engaged at the moment, either due to taking a break, technical issues, or disinterest. It’s important in team games where a player’s absence can affect the team’s performance.
- OP (Overpowered):
- Used to describe something in the game that is considered too strong, often leading to imbalance. An OP character or weapon might dominate the meta until it’s adjusted by developers.
- Smurf:
- A term for an experienced player who creates a new account to play against less skilled opponents, often to dominate or for practice. Smurfing can be controversial as it can ruin the gaming experience for beginners.
- Grinding:
- Refers to repetitive tasks or gameplay to achieve a specific goal, like leveling up, gaining resources, or unlocking content. It’s often seen as tedious but necessary for progression in many RPGs or MMOs like World of Warcraft.
- Respawn:
- When a player or enemy character reappears after being defeated. In games like “Call of Duty,” understanding respawn mechanics is crucial for strategic gameplay.
- Camping:
- A strategy where a player stays in one location, often to ambush others. In shooters like “Counter-Strike,” camping can be a debated tactic, seen by some as strategic and by others as unsportsmanlike.
- Cheese Strategy:
- An unconventional or unexpected tactic meant to capitalize on an opponent’s unpreparedness rather than skill. In games, this might mean exploiting a known weakness or using a strategy that’s hard to counter without specific knowledge.