Why Video Games Can Seem Easy for Some People: The Role of Innate Skill and Practice
Video games are a mix of skill, strategy, and practice. Most people start playing games with a basic understanding, but they gradually become more skilled through training and repetition. Despite the thousands of games available, no one is naturally good at video games from the start. However, some gamers achieve a level of proficiency that makes games seem easier to them. This article explores the factors that contribute to this phenomenon.
Understanding Game Mechanics
Every video game has its own set of mechanics that dictate how the game functions. For instance, in the iconic game Mario, the protagonist jumps, stomps enemies, and fires projectiles. In fighting games like Street Fighter, characters like Ryu perform a variety of actions, including jumps, blocks, throws, punches, and kicks, along with special moves such as energy projectiles. In the Halo series, the main character, Master Chief, runs, jumps, shoots, reloads, picks up weapons, and switches weapons.
These games require players to master specific skills and actions, which can be trained through repeated practice. This practice builds muscle memory, allowing players to perform actions with little conscious thought. While the initial stages may involve significant thinking, as players become more proficient, their muscle memory takes over, leading to faster and more instinctive reactions.
The Role of Persistence and Skill Acquisition
Many gamers face numerous setbacks during their initial attempts. They repeatedly die in Mario levels, fall into pits, or suffer defeats in enemies. However, these setbacks are the foundation of skill acquisition. Over time, as players continue to play and practice, they develop a sense of ease and proficiency in the game. This is because they have trained their muscle memory and reflexes to respond seamlessly to in-game situations.
A common example is the transition from frustration and quitting to mastery. Consider a friend who struggled with the 2D Mario games but later excelled in more complex games like Dark Souls. Despite facing numerous early deaths in the 2D Mario games, she eventually learned to navigate the challenge and mastered the mechanics. Similarly, another friend who found 2D Mario frustrating and quit playing didn't manage to develop the necessary muscle memory or skill to progress in the game.
Beyond Initial Acclimation: Innate Skill vs. Practice
For some players, the path to mastery is smoother and more intuitive. This is often attributed to innate skill. While practice is undoubtedly crucial, some individuals can quickly grasp game mechanics and strategies, making them appear naturally skilled. This does not mean that innate skill is the sole determinant; rather, it suggests that certain individuals have a better ability to recognize patterns and develop efficient strategies.
The concept of innate skill can sound corny, but it is a recognized phenomenon. Some players find that certain game mechanics come to them almost instantly, without extensive practice. This innate ability can manifest in various ways, from quick reflexes to natural strategic thinking. However, it should be noted that innate skill is not a one-size-fits-all answer. With the right practice and training, any player can improve and achieve fluency in a game, even if it doesn't come naturally.
Conclusion
Video games are a testament to the power of practice and persistence. No one starts out as a master, but through continuous learning and training, players develop the skills needed to play with ease. For some, this process is more intuitive, thanks to innate skill, while others rely more on practice. Regardless of the path, the journey to mastery in video games is a rewarding one. If you find a game challenging, keep playing, and you'll improve over time.