Backseat gaming is not limited to competitive gaming, but also may occur in many other types of games.
If someone is playing a game and the person behind them is actually telling them what to do or a streamer is constantly being told what to do in chat, it is also considered backseat gaming. Backseating frequently occurs when friends, family members, or stream watchers feel they have superior methods to play or techniques to employ. Just as it happens when driving a car with your parents in the passenger seats.
Backseat Gaming Meaning
For example, if a player dies during the gameplay but their ally is still alive — they tell that ally what to do and direct their actions forcefully. It is worth noting that backseat gaming is not the same as giving callouts which only involves passing information to the player rather than commanding them.
Why Is It Annoying?
First of all, constant interruptions might disrupt the player’s immersion and attention, making it more difficult to enjoy the game. It might also make the player feel as if their abilities or decisions are being assessed or critiqued.
What is more, receiving unwanted advice might put pressure on you to play in a specific manner, which reduces the enjoyment and flexibility of gaming. And finally, this removes the player’s individuality and decision-making abilities, making them seem like a simple tool obeying orders.
How to Deal with Someone Who is Backseat Gaming?
The first thing a person should do is clearly establish their boundaries. They should tell those who are backseat gaming to stop. If the same person keeps doing this even though the person playing has said it bothers them, the best solution is to block or mute them to make them stop.
However, this is only a short-term solution and only works for those who play online games. If someone you know and play together regularly is doing this, then they need to be told how to stop it. Explain to them that giving callouts is giving information and backseat gaming is giving someone else orders, which can be very annoying.
How to Play Multiplayer Games Without Being a Backseat Player
To those who enjoy backseating or have caught themselves making comments on other people’s game style out loud: first and foremost, let other players decide for themselves and gain knowledge from their mistakes — everybody plays the game differently, and part of the fun is figuring it out on your own.
Ask first if you feel compelled to offer advice. Also, when playing multiplayer games, put more of an emphasis on playing cooperatively than on controlling other players. Without prescribing how others should play, provide assistance and collaborate to achieve shared objectives. Instead of calling attention to errors, provide encouragement and positive reinforcement. Be patient with learning curves and acknowledge accomplishments.
In essence, backseat gaming can turn a fun and relaxing experience into a stressful and frustrating one. Letting players enjoy the game at their own pace is usually the best approach! Keep in mind that having fun is the main objective. Steer clear of needless tension and maintain a fun and light atmosphere.