E -gaming, a popular trend for Malaysian teenagers and young adults, started as long ago as the late 1990s and early 2000s. The rapid availability of the internet at the time led to an increasing trend for online games, most notably MMORPGs (multiplayer online role-playing games) The first of these types of games that was made popular was the famous 2003 MMORPG game DotA (Defense of the Ancients), which was one of many teenagers’ nostalgic games that led to them playing games competitively. This trademark of a game would be one of the several games that resonate in many hearts and serve as an entry point to competitive gaming.
ompetitive gaming. There are many categories of games such as racing, action, MMORPGs and many more. These types of games are able to help players achieve their potential in the online world, as well as to help enhance real-life skills. Yew (2023) from Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman conducted research and found that “e-gamers are very motivated to play video games because it is excellent at satisfying their needs for competence, autonomy and relatedness.” Due to critical thinking needed in the games as a basis of choice, opportunities and consequences, players are given the freedom to play and decide their gaming experiences in the gaming world. As such, they are able to develop and grow as a person in both the virtual world and the reality.
There are different ways to join and participate in e-gaming. The simplest way is to hop on to a computer/laptop or even a smartphone and play video games that consist of multiplayer gaming. Others would like to try different platforms such as Nintendo devices and PlayStation devices to give a more challenging or immersive atmosphere. Regardless of which platform it is, it is possible to join as long as there are internet connections. In e-gaming, you’ll face off against a variety of players and get matched with opponents of similar skill levels. As you improve your performance and progress in the game, you’ll become more competent. Eventually, you’ll find yourself competing against players at a competitive level, in which you will be tested to your true potential. For some lucky players, they may even encounter top players to play alongside and win together.
The rules of the different games vary. However, all games have a set of rules to make new and old players alike enjoy their experience in their games. These include anti-cheat software to prevent cheating and give new beginners a fair gaming experience. There may also be some players who are willing to help beginners to improve their skills and provide a head start in the game. As the Champion of the Local Arcade Racing Tournament Wangan Midnight: Maximum Tune 6RR, helping players grow and strive for competency in their racing experience in the game would be my main focus, as well as to enhance the driving skills of players in real life.
E-gaming has also been bringing many players to new heights in their careers and popularity. In an esports blog, it was found that Malaysia has generated a total of 13.77 million USD in the MMORPG game DOTA 2 alone, with the Malaysian top player xNova generating over 2 million USD despite his age of 26 (Esports Earning, 2024). Further research also found that he started participating in e-sports at only the age of 17, which shows that teenagers are also capable of participating and winning in e-sports competition. During my e-gaming experience since 2022, I did not earn much from competitions as I would be rather inferior compared to other highly skilled players. Nonetheless, I have gained respect and popularity among other e-gamers and to help other new players if needed.
As of 2023, e-gaming as a whole has been encouraged by many communities and even government officials. One example includes an interview conducted with Malaysian Minister of Youth & Sports YB Hannah Yeoh, in which she mentioned that game content creators could highlight certain courses in the game to create awareness. Hannah Yeoh also mentioned that “we are currently facing unity issues, which can be faced through esports, given the correct content” for the audience (Kakuchopurei, 2023). And so, encouraging students to play online games such as Valorant could help promote teamwork and unity among members to work together rather than rely on themselves alone.
In light of this, we encourage all RSGC members who possess the passion and potential for e-gaming to mark their calendars and prepare for our upcoming event. Registrations for ‘Valo-or-not, you and me’ are now open. Join us on May 12th, Saturday, starting at 9 am onwards, for an exhilarating day of 1v1 Valorant battles. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just discovering your talent, this is your chance to shine. Secure your spot now and be a part of RSGC’s gaming revolution!
References:
Esports Earnings. (2024). Top Player Rankings from Malaysia for Dota 2.
https://www.esportsearnings. com/games/231-dota-2/ countries/my
Kakuchopurei. (2023). We talk to Malaysia’s Hannah Yeoh about esports & gaming
[Video]. Youtube. https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=EIfgFHtpUuk
Vincent, L. (2024). The Evolution of Internet in Malaysia and Its Impact on Gaming. GamerBraves.
https://www.gamerbraves. com/the-evolution-ofinternet-in-malaysia-and-itsimpact-on-gaming/
Yew, B. N. B. (2023). To Play or Not to Play: How Video Games Motivate Gamers in Malaysia to Play.
