Fuck you muthafuka.....

Just kidding. Skrum suggested we have a little discourse about the psychological aspects of the game.

My first point is that this is a unique game in that it is tactical left brained, random like life, and social right brained.

Plenty has been said about the tactical which is actually understood by all levels. Nowing how to connect and recognising others most predictable moves.

Much has been said about the luck aspect, grudgingly spoken with ill will and paranoia. But I think we can all agree that the randomness is not out to get anyone and that just like life, it isn't truly random. I believe it has been stated that there is a code or frequency that if a person were to crack into, even if it were completly intution, this is very much like a real life spiritual connection.

But my interest is in the dynamics of group communication and how they affect the game.

I am a relativly new player who has had the fortunate experience of playing well enough to see both the lowest level playing and the best of the best. I can safely say that there are tremendous differences in the social atmosphere of the levels.

Players at the 10 tables do not communicate. They are out for themselves and fight in a more tribalistic, local pattern. What upper level players would call random attacks or suicide or meltdowns happen more frequently here as less interest in the game causes players to lose patience quickly or make far riskier moves.

The 200 table level is where the players begin to recognize previous players and social bonds are formed. also players become more invested in the game and their standings. Now that random attacks are fewer meaning there is more awareness to others around them. Cooperation happens more frequently. Players are willing to take second or third instead of just playing for domination. But at this level many are more willing to leave a game if they are doing poorly.

Now the 1 k games are very different. These players have been playing eachother for several months now. Unspoken bonds that have been created are around but very difficult to see. Chatting is almost nessisary as deals are made in seconds that will end in another few turns. Players are far more interested in keeping thier points though. So the liminal point where friendship meets self preservation becomes quite frustrating. Ok that all for now . please leave soom good thoughts. and remember...


Fuck you muthafuka