Some players prefer the thrill of playing online against human opponents, and most of the games that offer this tend to be multiplayer titles. Given that you'll have other players on your side, there are unspoken rules you should follow to have a more enjoyable gameplay experience.
1. Be Kind to Beginners
Whether you like it or not, you might encounter players who are still developing their skills, especially if you solo queue. If you find one, it's best to guide them and provide constructive criticism to help them learn. You have to remember that at some point, you were probably terrible at the game too.
2. Mind Your Mic
Since some games require you to use voice chat to better coordinate with your teammates, you should mind the sounds that your mic picks up. It's best to avoid playing in places with excessive background noises, or opt for push-to-talk if you can't help it. It goes without saying that you also shouldn't scream into your mic no matter how mad you get.
3. Avoid Backseat Gaming
Online multiplayer video games allow you to spectate one of your teammates when you die so you can still see what's going on in the match or game. If so, allow them to play the game as they see fit. It's okay to offer suggestions, but there's a line between guidance and backseat gaming where you just tell them what to do.
4. Don't Play When You're Tilted
Veteran players have experienced tilt at least once. In case you aren't familiar with the term, it's the frustration and rage you feel over the game that affects your ability to play. If you feel like you are tilted, best to cool off first so your teammates won't have to suffer for it as well. Plus, playing through your frustration rarely works in removing the tilt anyway.
5. Don't Be an XP Farmer
Every time you play, you get XP (experience points) from the match or game, which lets you level up and unlock certain items, skills, and other perks. Some players join a session and barely do anything just so they get XP by the end of it, meaning that their teammates did all the work for them. Don't be that person.
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6. Respect Your Opponents
Just because you're on opposing sides doesn't mean that you get to disrespect the other team. Whether they are good or terrible at the game, you have to remember that it is just a game. That means no saying or chatting "gg ez" once the game is done, or trash-talking them throughout the match. That's a good way to get reported and banned.
7. Share the Loot
In some games, you could find random loot in certain locations in the form of ammo, weapons, medical kits, and more. Don't hoard them all for yourself and remember that your teammates also need them. After all, everyone is after the same goal, which is to win. The more they have, the better they can contribute.
8. Avoid Camping Too Much
Camping is a strategy where you wait for opponents in a blind spot so you can go in for the kill. While that can be a good move in certain scenarios, doing it too much is just terrible gaming etiquette. Camping means that you hide away while others take the risk by hunting down opponents.
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