Love Your Game Long Time

It's almost Valentine's Day so surely by now somebody has thrown some words of advice your way about how to make that special day especially special for that special someone. (Side Note: The word "special" is mega-lame but every jewelry advertisement uses it.) Instead I decided to throw some more useful advice your way.

A proper gaming session has a lot in common with a good lovemaking session actually. Sometimes the mood and the desire strikes at a random moment and nothing is going to stop you until you're having some fun. Here's se7en ways to improve your game:

1. Set the mood.
Dim the lights and light some scented candles if that's what helps you see the details of your television better. Music can help you focus, but if it starts coming through your mic and upsetting your playmates then it's too loud. A good test is to turn on the music, say something, and then check to see if your microphone symbol stays flashing when you stop talking. That means it must be picking up your music.

2. Approach the situation with tenderness.
It's okay to be a little depressed because playtime is a good pick-me-up, but leave anger at the door. If you're already on edge, then insults from your opponents are going to become effective in distracting you. Be kind to your toys as well, they are most effective when not smashed against the floor.

3. Clean Up
Clean up, everybody everywhere. If your roommate/girlfriend/friend walks in and sees you in your PJs at 3:00 PM playing video games, they're sure to start giving you grief. However, if they see that you're nicely shaved and don't smell of Cool Aid they might be more tempted to sit next to you and pick up a controller.

4. Drain and Refill your Body
Go to the bathroom before you start, especially to take care of the things that would require more than a couple minutes of break time. If you and your buddies are on a role in Team Slayer you don't want to have to break things up. You've also got to refill your body to stay energized and focused. I know energy drinks and Pop Tarts might sound like a good idea, but they lack substance and sustainability (they make you crash) . Personally I go with a glass of water and a sandwich (salami, cheese, and lettuce please and thank you) but if you want to meet half way try Gatoraid and Cheeze-Its (No I'm not sponsored but if any representatives happen to read this: I don't hate money).

5. Plan Ahead
Sometimes the anticipation is as intense as the real thing. Find some like-minded gamers on the web and arrange a time to meet up and play together. Networking online is the latest and greatest purpose of the internet. Use it!

6. Crack a Joke
It takes less effort than you think. The easiest joke to make has got to be the game-related pun. Humor isn't just the best aphrodisiac, it's also a pretty good adhesive for any team. Jokes and funny stories are especially helpful when playing with new people for the first time. If these are the people you intend to game with, then a similar sense of humor is a must.

7. Take a Break
If you can't get into "The Zone" then just take a break. Maybe you've got some laundry to do, but if can get into a better mood and then come back to the joysticks you'll be a better gamer and a better teammate for it.