So, let’s explore what a meta is and whether you should follow it.
What Is a Meta in Gaming?
Designing a multiplayer game is tricky.
OpenAI / MakeUseOf
On paper, this sounds easy; in practice, not so much.
As such, to maximize their success, the players begin basing their game plan around it.
This shift of behavior will become the game’s “meta.”
OpenAI / MakeUseOf
Metas aren’t just limited to games with inherently unequal dynamics like video games with different character classes.
They can affect games where both sides are on equal standing.
And a lot ofapps that teach people chesswill educate players on what these meta-based moves are.
DC Studio/Shutterstock
At this point, you might be curious where the term meta came from.
People sometimes claim that “meta” is an acronym, standing for “most efficient tactic available.”
Are Metas Good or Bad for Gaming?
you could’t define metas as a strictly good or bad thing in gaming.
It wholly depends on how the meta develops, and how the developers handle it after it arises.
That’s one of the fascinating things about metas.
The core game can remain and persist through both good and bad meta changes.
Let’s look at how a meta can help or hurt a game.
How Metas Can Help Games
Metas can sometimes be seen as “flavors of the month.”
This is especially true for a game that receives consistent updates that tweak how the game is played.
Any particularly overpowered or annoying cards are banned.
How Metas Can Harm Games
Metas are not always positive.
If a meta is too “powerful,” it will warp the game around it.
And given how Hearthstone is designed, any deck could run Dr. Boom.
And people would concede if their opponent managed to play Dr. Boom and they hadn’t drawn it yet.
If a meta is healthy and you enjoy playing in it, there’s nothing wrong with following it.
After all, the meta developed because people found the best way to achieve something within the game.
Or you may even find an even better way to play.
Both of which can feel very personally fulfilling.
You’ll have plenty of reading material!
On the flip side, some people don’t like following the meta.
They instead prefer to play as they desire, regardless of if it’s the best tactic in-game.
If you’re having fun, keep playing.
A graduated approach lets you get caught up in the meta only as much as you want.
