Game Jargon Definition: “Hardcore Gamer”

Hardcore Gamer (noun) - hard·core gam·er / ˈhärdˌkôr ɡāmər /

Rather than having a hard and fast definition for “hardcore gamer,” it is more pragmatic to think of a hardcore gamer as a gamer who exhibits certain traits, either to a high degree and/or in concert with the others. These traits include spending a relatively high number of hours playing games; preferring to play games of greater complexity in terms of rules, depth of play, or game length (e.g. plays games that take 2+ hours); knowing how to play dozens or even hundreds of games; playing games with the desire to test and actively improve their skills; wanting to replay the game repeatedly so as to experience everything the game has to offer; and/or considering gaming to be a notable aspect of their identity rather than simply a casual pastime.

Hardcore gamers are often confused with competitive gamers (e.g., those who compete regularly in community, semi-professional, or professional tournaments) or with gamers who strictly prefer heavy games—but you don’t have to be a competitive gamer or prefer heavy games to be a hardcore gamer.

Finally, many hardcore gamers seek out and/or contribute to the gaming community’s meta-game content (e.g., watching others play on game streaming services, reviewing games, and participating in online forums).