This Learning Disabilities Week, we’re highlighting the growing importance of support for SEN (Special Educational Needs) — and how gaming is becoming a powerful tool in that journey. At Play New Meta Academy, we combine the excitement of gaming with structured learning to create inclusive, safe, and engaging educational experiences for neurodiverse students.

Did you know that 1 in 5 gamers face additional educational challenges? Many of these young people thrive in structured yet stimulating environments like gaming platforms, which is why they’re proving so effective for building both academic and social-emotional skills.

Why Gaming Is an Effective Tool for SEN Support

Gaming offers clear rules, instant feedback, and immersive worlds—making it an ideal environment for many SEN learners. At Play New Meta Academy, we use gaming as a launchpad for growth, helping students with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning differences develop:

• Coding and digital literacy
• Communication and collaboration
• Emotional regulation
• Leadership and problem-solving skills

Our approach provides meaningful and practical support for SEN students, tailored to how they learn best.

Concerns in Gaming – Safety Comes First

Gaming is fun—but it’s also essential to teach kids how to navigate the online world safely. For SEN students, risks like scams, inappropriate content, or oversharing can be even more concerning without proper guidance.

That’s why every class at Play New Meta Academy is coach-supervised, with built-in digital safety lessons. We help our students understand online etiquette, set boundaries, and respond to challenges in a supportive and structured environment.

For some of our classes such as for games made by “Epic Games” we use their fantastic tools to help guide how our students interact online. For more on how you can customise how your child interacts online, check this Mastering the Meta article we’ve recently released.

A Blended Learning Model That Builds Confidence

At the heart of our method is a blended learning approach. We combine what students love, Gaming, with the life skills they need to thrive in school and beyond. This balance between play and purpose creates a space where our students feel engaged, successful, and confident across all our classes, from Esports, to Game Development and even into Content Creation.

Most importantly, we recognize that every child learns differently. That’s why our programs are flexible, inclusive, and centered on each student’s unique strengths. Our model offers personalized support for SEN learners in a way that builds independence and self-esteem. This is an added benefit of our smaller class sizes!

Get Started with a Free Trial

If you’re looking for effective, creative, and fun support for a young gamer obsessed with gaming? We’re here to help! Check out one of our free trial classes and see how it all works!

Together, let’s create a world where every learner feels seen, supported, and inspired.

At Play New Meta Academy, one of the most common questions we hear — especially during trial sessions — is, “Will my child make friends here?” It’s a great question, and the answer goes straight to the heart of how we approach our classes. We always have the goal of building friendships through gaming.

We’ve designed our academy to be more than just a place to play. It’s a supportive, inclusive environment where young gamers feel seen, safe, and valued from the moment they walk through the door. Through shared passion, face-to-face interaction, and structured group activities, students form meaningful bonds that often extend well beyond the game.

Building friendships through gaming also gives kids a natural way to develop communication, collaboration, and leadership skills — all while having fun doing what they love. Our experienced coaches guide this growth while also teaching students about online safety, respectful play, and digital responsibility.

Watch the video below to see how we support this development and take a peek inside our academy’s vibrant, welcoming community.

Thanks for watching, if you’re interested in learning more about us or have a young gamer at home hoping to transform their games experience, you can book 90-minute free trial. These are perfect to see if what we do as an academy works for you and your family. Or you can also learn more about our classes. Just click one of the links below!

For any questions relating to the academy, please email us here:  ac*****@pl*********.gg  or connect with us on WhatsApp on the pop-up below!

Welcome to Beyond the Screen, this is Play New Meta Academy’s introductory Podcast from Andrew Harford and Jack Simmons where they take gaming conversations beyond the screen with insights, personal experiences, and discussion.

In this episode, Andrew and Jack reflect on how their own experiences with video games highlight the powerful connection between gaming and skill development for youth—transforming play into moments that build character, confidence, and lifelong bonds. But this isn’t just about fun and games. They reveal how video games became a gateway to learning, growth, and real-world success.

As they explore gaming and skill development for youth, Andrew and Jack also address common concerns parents may have, offering thoughtful perspectives on how gaming, when approached with intention, can be an incredible tool for development. If you’re a parent wondering how games fit into your child’s life, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.

Through honest stories and relatable experiences, they highlight how gaming nurtures problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity — skills that extend far beyond the screen. Plus, they introduce how their academy bridges the gap between gaming and personal growth, creating a place where passion meets purpose. Whether you’re curious or skeptical, this episode offers a fresh and practical look at how gaming impacts youth today.

Thanks for watching, if you’re interested in learning more about us or have a young gamer at home hoping to transform their games experience, you can book 90-minute free trial. These are perfect to see if what we do as an academy works for you and your family. Click below for the full list!

If you have any feedback for us, have topics you’d like us to cover, or potentially want to come onto one of our podcasts, you can contact Andrew per email here: an****@pl*********.gg

For any questions relating to the academy, please email us here: ac*****@pl*********.gg or connect with us on WhatsApp on the pop-up below!

If your child plays video games, you may have heard them talk about Fortnite, V-Bucks, or Battle Passes. These are all part of a growing trend in the gaming industry: Live Service Games. But what exactly are they, and how do they work?

Below you’ll find a video as well as text to walk you through Live Service Games with Fortnite as an example. As well as a handful of tips to help you manage microtransactions best within these types of games.

This is a new type type of content we are testing, so if you like it, please do let us know, and if you’re interested in some other topics be sure to get into contact with us here: an****@pl*********.gg .

What Are Live Service Games?

Unlike traditional video games, which are purchased once and played as they are, Live Service Games are designed to evolve. These games receive continuous content updates that can be purchased as a means to keep their player base engaged over time. Instead of paying upfront, players are encouraged to spend money on in-game content like character skins, cosmetic items, and season passes.

Let’s take a closer look at how this works using Fortnite as an example.

How Fortnite’s Microtransactions Work

V-Bucks: Fortnite’s In-Game Currency

Fortnite uses a virtual currency called V-Bucks, which must be purchased with real money. Here’s how the pricing works, for the moment it’s a £6.99 for 1000 V-Bucks.

Players use V-Bucks to buy cosmetic items such as:

• Character Outfits – Unique skins for their in-game avatar.
• Back Blings – Stylish backpacks for customization.
• Pickaxes – Tools for gathering resources.
• Gliders – Used when entering the game.
• Contrails – Special visual effects when jumping into a match.
• Pets – Small companions that follow the player.
• Emotes – Dances and animations for characters.
• Wraps – Custom designs for weapons and vehicles.
• Music – Background music for the game’s lobby.

These items don’t improve gameplay skills—they’re purely cosmetic. However, because some of these items rotate frequently, there is a pressure to earn/buy them before they disappear!

The Battle Pass – Purchased with 1000 V-Bucks or £6.99 Per Season

One of Fortnite’s biggest microtransactions is “The Battle Pass” where players spend 1000 V-Bucks to gain exclusive access to a set of around 100+ cosmetic items during a specified “Season” in-game. Once the season completes these cosmetic items will no longer be able to be purchased or earned unless there is a special occasion where they are readded.

The battle pass can be accessed by anyone playing the game, however only players who have purchased the battle pass will have the ability to earn access to all the new cosmetic items. Players that haven’t will only earn every 4th or 5th item.

Fortnite Crew Subscription – £9.99/Month

Fortnite also combines their microtransactions in a monthly subscription as well. Allowing players the following benefits:

• 1,000 V-Bucks each month
• Battle Pass Access
• Limited-time cosmetics
• Additional Exclusive Passes

The Challenges for Kids

Why Is This a Concern?

• FOMO (Fear of Missing out), exclusive content, that will never be available again
• Peer Influence, don’t miss out on the fun your friends are having
• New releases of content each with the focus of pushing more microtransactions

It’s like walking into a toy store every day and being told, “Buy now or you’ll never see this again!”—and for many kids, that’s tough to ignore.

Ultimately, these spending habits can be difficult to steer clear of and it makes it all the more important that players equip themselves so they don’t over indulge with these seemingly small purchases.

How Parents Can Help

1. Set Spending Limits

Decide on a budget together—whether it’s a monthly allowance for V-Bucks or limiting purchases to special occasions. This helps kids understand that digital purchases are still real spending.

2. Encourage Smart Spending

Before they buy, ask: Do you really want this, or is it just because it’s new? Encouraging them to pause and think before spending can help as after a period of time the excitement within the game to have these various skins will simmer down.

3. Use Parental Controls

Fortnite allows parents to set a range of controls to avoid over spending online. Using these tools can help prevent impulsive spending.

• Require approval for purchases.
• Set spending limits.
• Turn off in-game purchases completely.

4. Shift the Focus

Remind kids that cosmetic items don’t improve gameplay—there is no advantage to having them or not, it is purely for a visual change or effect. A player who hasn’t spent a single £ of money in the game will have the same gameplay experience.

Final Thoughts

Fortnite is a fun, social game, but it’s also built to encourage spending, helping fund the constant updates and expansions that keep its world dynamic and engaging.

Kid’s playing a “live service game” like Fortnite need to know how the game works and it is extremely helpful if parent’s are aware of how to setup healthy boundaries for their children, so that they can ensure an enjoyable Fortnite experience without falling into unhealthy spending habits.

By having open conversations, setting limits, and using the tools available, you can protect from the dangers of live service gaming and ensure they reap the benefits of online play.

Interested to know more about what we do at Play New Meta Academy, or looking to experience it first hand yourself? Book a free 90-minute trial below and see if it’s a fit for your family, or take a look at all our courses with the links provided below!

If you found this blog interesting and helpful, please do let us know! We are actively searching for new topics to cover and eager to know what type of content our parents are curious about. If you have any ideas or thoughts, please share them here: an****@pl*********.gg .

The Olympics have always offered talented participants the chance to compete against one another and consolidate their status as the best in the world. Overwhelmingly, the games are physically demanding and require extreme fitness and strength. However, this is about to change radically. This month, the International Olympic Committee announced a 12-year partnership with Saudi Arabia to hold an Esports Olympics. 

A key attraction of gaming is its accessibility. If you are 16 years old and have never been to a gym in your life, you still have every chance to rise to the top of your discipline. Unlike conventional sports, where physical disabilities, health constraints, or lack of strength can be significant obstacles, esports levels the playing field by emphasising cognitive abilities and mental acuity. 

Players hone their skills in reaction times, strategic thinking, and teamwork, engaging in rigorous training and practice sessions. This shift in focus from physical prowess to mental agility means that individuals of varying physical capabilities can compete at high levels. This demonstrates that esports demands just as much dedication, skill, and training as traditional sports but towards mastering different, equally challenging competencies.

Bringing the Esports Olympics from Aspiration to Reality

In 2017, a summit was held to discuss the potential for esports to be integrated into the Olympic program. Following this summit, an online Olympic Virtual Series was held in 2021, which was followed by the official establishment of an Olympic Esports Series in 2022. Noticeable progress towards an Esports Olympics began when the inaugural Olympic Esports Series was held in Singapore, June 2023. It seems as though this served as a form of trial to test how such an event would be organised and operate. Although some controversy arose from those in the mainstream esports scene due to a lack of traditional competitive games, the event successfully accelerated talks within the International Olympic Committee. 

With Paris 2024 ongoing and the Olympic Spirit in full swing, it has been announced that 2025 will host a standalone Esports Olympics, similar to how the Winter Olympics stands separate from the current ongoing event. It is yet to be revealed which games will be included, but we know it will be hosted in Saudi Arabia. 

Esports Olympics vs. the Traditional Olympics

An Esports Olympics, however, would differ from the mainstream esports industry in structure and game titles. More violent-natured video games like Counter-Strike and Call of Duty, despite having sizeable esports scenes, would likely not feature. Although this may differ from the expectations of some hardcore gamers, it would also make viewership far wider and more appropriate for all ages. 

Bringing digital sports under the Olympic banner would also help connect with younger generations who increasingly interact online. Approximately 83% of people between the ages of 16 and 24 play video games in the UK. An Esports Olympics may attract viewership from younger age groups with less interest in traditional sports, providing them with new inspiration and role models. 

How Could the Esports Olympics Impact the Future?

A crucial benefit the Esports Olympics could bring to children is the ability to witness where their passion can take them. Esports athletes must have an incredible work ethic to succeed, and their journey to Olympic victory can inspire those who struggle to relate to the journey of traditional athletes. Not all children have the physical capability or emotional enthusiasm to endure football, track running, or swimming. However, gaming is more accessible to all. 

Passionate young gamers, such as our Academy students today, may be laying the foundations for their future careers. 

The Esports Olympics has journeyed from a concept to a planned event in the near future. It is time for young gamers to find their special inspiration and celebrate the Olympic Spirit. 

As we transition to an increasingly digital world, children are presented with new challenges. Alongside learning how to interact and socialise in person, they now also need to learn how to interact and make friends online. Knowing how to introduce children to these different relationships can be difficult. However, children can make friends in the New Meta Academy, where we create a productive, semi-digital environment through guided online video game play.

The New Meta Academy offers a unique blend of gaming and education. We strongly focus on fostering social skills and creating a supportive environment for children, whether they are social butterflies or on a journey to gain confidence. By bringing your child to the New Meta Academy, you open up opportunities for them to engage in productive play while developing essential social skills through collaborative gaming experiences.

The Social Benefits of Collaborative Gaming

Video games, particularly those with multiplayer and collaborative elements, provide an excellent platform for children to develop critical skills and interact with their peers. At New Meta Academy, children participate in games that require teamwork, strategy, and communication. This collaborative nature of gaming encourages more interaction among children as they work together to achieve common goals. Whether they are coordinating strategies in Fortnite or helping each other solve code in Minecraft, children learn to communicate effectively, share ideas, and support one another.

The structured yet flexible environment of the New Meta Academy ensures that learning is both fun and meaningful. Children are engaged in their interests while also being encouraged to reflect on their interactions, understand different perspectives, and develop empathy. 

Guidance from the New Meta Academy Coaches

One of the key components of the New Meta Academy experience is the presence of certified coaches who guide how children interact with each other. These coaches are familiar with the world of gaming and are trained to foster positive social interactions and teamwork. They create an environment where children feel safe to express themselves and where cooperation is encouraged. Coaches help children understand the value of teamwork, teaching them how to work together harmoniously, give each other constructive feedback, and resolve conflicts. This guidance is crucial in helping children develop the social skills needed to thrive both in and out of the gaming world.

An Inclusive Environment for All Children

Socialising at school can be challenging for many children, especially those with Autism or ADHD, who might find it difficult to fit in. The New Meta Academy offers an inclusive environment where children can bond over a shared interest in games. This common ground provides a natural starting point for building friendships and developing social skills. Children who might struggle in traditional social settings find a sense of belonging at New Meta, where their unique interests and strengths are valued.

In this supportive environment, children with Autism or ADHD can learn at their own pace and in a way that suits their individual needs. The coaches at the New Meta Academy are trained to understand and support these children, ensuring that they feel included and empowered. By participating in group activities and collaborative games, these children can practice social interactions in a controlled and positive setting, gradually building their confidence and social abilities.

While the digital world is eroding the social lives of some children, the New Meta Academy is combatting loneliness and isolation by merging digital hobbies with in-person collaboration. Making friends and learning productive relationships are vital parts of childhood. We can work together as a community to ensure that children still have the space, time, and support to socially thrive.

The rapidly growing esports industry offers many career opportunities beyond just playing video games professionally. From the strategic oversight of a coach or team manager to the creative demands of content creation, there are numerous paths for those passionate about gaming. 

This article explores the diverse roles within the esports ecosystem, providing insights into the skills and dedication required for each. Careers in esports are both challenging and rewarding. Join us as we delve into the roadmaps for these exciting careers and discover what it takes to succeed in the dynamic world of esports.

Core Esports Careers

Professional Esports Player

Athletes are at the core of all sports teams, and esports is no exception. Professional gamers are the best of the best, working every day to improve their performance. Engaging regularly in aim training, response time training, strategy reviews, and team practice ensures that these gamers are prepared for any in-game challenge. 

Proper online conduct is paramount, as these players represent themselves, their teams, sponsors, and the wider gaming community. This involves maintaining a positive presence at tournaments, during live streams, and in public interactions. 

Developing constructive relationships with teammates is another critical aspect, as team dynamics can significantly impact performance. Effective communication, mutual respect, and a collaborative spirit are essential for success in the highly competitive environment of esports. 

Lastly, professional esports players must maintain a strong sense of passion and commitment to their game of choice. This passion drives players to continually refine their skills, stay updated with game developments, and maintain the intense practice schedules necessary to compete at the highest levels. Balancing these elements helps professional esports players achieve success and longevity in their careers.

How do you become a professional esports player?

Becoming a professional esports player starts with a deep passion for and dedication to a particular game. Aspiring players hone their skills through countless hours of practice and participating in online matches and community tournaments. Gaining visibility and recognition within the gaming community is crucial, often achieved through live streaming, engaging on social media, and joining amateur leagues or local competitions. 

As their skills and reputation grow, players may get scouted by established teams or organisations, leading to opportunities to compete in larger, more prestigious tournaments. Consistent performance, a strong personal brand, and professional conduct are essential to attract sponsorships and support. Maintaining physical and mental well-being is also vital to growing and sustaining a successful career in esports. 

Networking within the community and continuously seeking self-improvement are two of the most important contributors to an individual’s chances of reaching the professional level.

Team Coach/Analyst

An esports team coach plays a pivotal role in their players’ personal and professional development. They help devise strategic plans, identify strengths and weaknesses, and develop tailored programs to enhance player performance. Coaches are also often responsible for tracking and adapting to changes within the game, known as “meta changes” or “meta shifts.” 

Some coaches specialise as an analyst, usually working alongside a primary coach. Analysts focus intensely on in-game and performance-related statistics, which are then used by the primary coach to make vital strategic decisions.

Supporting players as a coach extends beyond game mechanics; it includes fostering a positive team environment, addressing individual needs, and providing mentorship to help players navigate the pressures of professional competition. Maintaining a high degree of professionalism is essential, as coaches set the standard for conduct, work ethic, and communication, ensuring the team operates cohesively and effectively within the broader esports ecosystem.

How do you become a professional esports coach or analyst?

The career progression of an esports coach often begins with experience as a player or an analyst within the gaming community, where they develop a deep understanding of game mechanics and strategies. Initially, they might take on coaching roles for amateur or semi-professional teams, gaining practical experience in training players and devising game plans. 

Success in these roles can lead to opportunities with more prominent organisations, where they can coach professional teams in high-stakes tournaments. Successful coaches continuously work to enhance their coaching skills, building a reputation for professionalism, and developing a greater understanding of player development.

Esports Team Manager

An esports team manager is responsible for organising and managing team events’ logistics, including arranging travel, accommodation, and bootcamps. They handle scouting for new players, negotiating and managing contracts, and ensuring compliance with league regulations. The manager also oversees the day-to-day activities of players and coaches, coordinating practice schedules, addressing any team issues, and facilitating effective communication within the team. 

Additionally, they may work on maintaining relationships with sponsors and partners, ensuring that the team meets its promotional obligations. This role demands strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and managing multiple tasks efficiently.

How do you become an esports team manager?

To become an esports team manager, gaining experience in the wider esports industry is important, whether in positions within esports teams or being involved in wider event management. Developing strong organisational and communication skills is crucial, as the role involves managing logistics, contracts, and team coordination. 

Networking within the esports community, attending industry events, and connecting with professionals can provide valuable opportunities and insights. Additionally, gaining experience in related fields such as sports management, event planning, or human resources can be beneficial. Demonstrating a passion for esports, a deep understanding of the industry, and a proven ability to handle complex tasks efficiently will help in securing a role as an esports team manager.

Content Creator/Streamer

Gaming content creators within the esports industry are responsible for producing engaging and entertaining content related to video games and esports. Their roles include creating videos, live-streaming gameplay, producing tutorials, and offering commentary on esports events. 

Content creators build and maintain a strong online presence across platforms like YouTube and Twitch, interacting with their audience to grow their fanbase. They often collaborate with esports teams, sponsors, and other influencers to promote products and events. They must stay updated on gaming trends and news, ensuring their content remains relevant and appealing. 

Additionally, content creators must handle technical aspects of content production, such as editing videos and managing streaming equipment, to consistently deliver high-quality content.

How do you become a content creator?

Becoming a successful gaming content creator involves a dedicated and strategic approach. The process typically begins with selecting a niche or game to focus on and consistently producing high-quality content around it. Key skills required include understanding your audience, catering to their interests and preferences, and maintaining regular engagement through interactive content and social media. 

Aspiring creators must develop technical skills in video editing, graphic design, and live streaming. Building a network by collaborating with other creators and engaging with companies for sponsorships is also crucial. This career path involves long hours of content creation, marketing, and community management to grow and sustain a loyal audience.

Caster/Commentator

Esports casters (known in traditional sports as commentators) are responsible for narrating and analysing live esports events. Their roles include providing real-time commentary during matches, explaining game mechanics and strategies, and enhancing the viewer’s experience with their insights and enthusiasm. They must be knowledgeable about the game, its meta, and the competitive scene, while also being able to engage and entertain the audience. 

Casters often work alongside broadcast analysts (who take a data-informed approach to post-game commentary) and broadcast hosts (who string together a broadcast, encouraging conversations between other talent and conducting interviews), ensuring a dynamic and informative broadcast. 

How do you become an esports caster?

The typical career progression for esports casters begins with building a presence in the esports community, often through creating content, streaming, or volunteering at smaller events. Many start by casting amateur or local tournaments, gradually gaining experience and recognition. As they hone their skills and develop a unique style, they can move on to casting larger events and leagues, often being scouted by professional organisations or broadcasters. 

Networking and continuous self-improvement are crucial, as is staying updated on game developments. With time and consistent performance, casters can achieve prominent roles in major tournaments, and some may even transition into related fields such as analysis, hosting, or production roles within the esports industry.

Supporting Esports Careers

Not all esports careers are directly associated with esports teams and organisations. Event organisers, marketing specialists, PR (public relations) specialists, and journalists play crucial roles in shaping and promoting the esports scene, each offering distinct career pathways. 

Event organisers manage the logistics, production, and overall execution of esports tournaments and events, starting often in entry-level positions like event coordinators or assistants. With experience and a proven track record, they can progress to roles such as event managers or directors, overseeing larger, more complex events. 

Marketing and PR specialists focus on promoting esports teams, events, and brands, often beginning their careers with internships or junior roles in marketing agencies or esports organisations. Journalists often work closely with PR specialists. Most journalists start by covering esports news, writing articles, and creating multimedia content, typically in freelance or junior roles. Through consistent quality work and by building a portfolio, they can progress to senior journalist positions, editors, or even content directors, shaping the narrative and influencing public perception of the esports industry. 

Each career requires dedication, a deep understanding of the esports landscape, and a passion for the gaming community.

Skill Development for Esports Careers and Beyond

At the New Meta Academy, we provide a structured environment where children can develop essential skills for careers in esports and beyond. By encouraging social gameplay with peers, the academy fosters positive, constructive, and feedback-driven relationships, helping to build crucial interpersonal skills foundational to any successful career. 

Children can learn the importance of teamwork, communication, and adaptability through games in a dynamic setting. Vital career skills such as professional conduct, commitment, and strategic thinking can be taught in an engaging and interactive manner, keeping crucial learning fun. 

Whether young people aim to succeed as professional players or as esports journalists, learning through games can be a key stepping stone to future success.

For most people, video games are a hobby confined to their sofa or worn-out gaming chair. 

However, the world of professional gaming is more than just a leisurely pastime. It’s a fiercely competitive sport that can propel you to heights you never imagined. Each year, esports tournaments transform stadiums and arenas into battlegrounds, attracting dedicated fans to watch their revered pros battle it out for prize pools that often exceed millions of dollars. 

For the uninitiated, esports events may seem peripheral – not mainstream, but enough people are interested to make something happen. While this was once true, rising investment in esports tournaments is pushing the industry forward rapidly. Summer 2024 will see the first Esports World Cup held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, featuring 19 video game titles and over $60 million in prize money. 

The esports industry is becoming impossible to ignore. So, what are esports events, and why are they so important? 

What do Esports Events Look Like?

Esports Events are incredibly diverse and often adapt to the game featured. Most take a tournament format, where teams or individuals must make it through qualifying, group, bracket, and final stages to win a trophy. Transforming arenas and stadiums, the staging of these tournaments is often high-concept, extravagant, and atmospheric to match the game played.

Like many traditional sports, esports also has grassroots leagues and tournaments. The industry finds its roots in BYOC (bring your own computer) tournaments that first began to draw communities together in small venues. These events still take place around the world. In the UK, Epic.LAN has hosted community esports tournaments for 20 years, featuring BYOC and stage events. Many players, esports event staff, and on-broadcast talent began their careers in such events, proving their immense value to the industry.

Who Competes in Esports Events?

Anyone can become an esports pro if they have the skill, dedication, and passion to reach the top. Professional esports players must excel at understanding their game’s mechanics, learn to strategise under pressure, and work exceptionally well with others, especially in team-orientated games. 

Although esports is still male-dominated, many game titles have established additional tournaments, events, and programs to provide a space for women and non-binary players. In these leagues, they climb the ranks and gain competitive experience while inspiring the next generation of diverse gamers.

Why do people go to Esports Events?

Although an online broadcast accompanies all major esports events, live events draw thousands of fans to sell-out stadiums to immerse themselves in the moment. However, attendees cannot see the PC screen, a perfectly coordinated broadcast switches between players, run by a team of observers and played on giant screens throughout the venue. Sound effects, vibrations, smoke, sparklers, and carefully curated lighting immerse the audience in the game, with each event tailoring its staging to its own gameplay.  

For many, esports events and tournaments are the heart and soul of competitive gaming. Communities unite from every corner of the globe to celebrate a shared passion, often spending days at a time dedicated to a tournament from its group stage to completion. 

Whether you are a fan, content creator, pro, staff member, journalist, game developer, or cosplayer, there is something for you.

Video games are a platform for individual enjoyment, competition, and social interaction. Many games are built on the foundation of teamwork, where each player’s role is crucial to achieving a common goal. This makes effective, efficient, and collaborative communication not just important, but essential. 

However, the exhilaration and tension found within competitive games can begin to blur the lines between passionate exchange and toxicity. Curbing inappropriate online behaviour and damaging in-game conduct is a mission increasingly prioritised within the gaming and esports communities, and every individual plays a significant role. 

Concerns surrounding in-game conduct are even more critical to address when children engage in competitive play. Understandably, parents would be particularly apprehensive about allowing their children to participate in these environments. The New Meta Academy appreciates these priorities, ensuring that effective and appropriate online communication is integrated into our competitive gaming-related classes. 

For more information about online behaviour and the journey to positive in-game conduct, read through our rundown of what is being done within the gaming and esports communities and what you can do at home to create a safer online gaming environment.

The gaming industry’s journey towards toxicity management

Recent movements within the game design community have acknowledged and consolidated designers’ responsibility to guide and reinforce certain online behaviours. Conferences such as the GDC (Game Developers Conference) have held regular panels to discuss these responsibilities and how best to encourage responsible in-game interactions. 

Community management roles have also gained increasing respect and importance within the gaming industry. Community Managers are employed to interact and establish online spaces for those playing a particular game to interact, exchange knowledge, and share their passion. Alongside this, Community Managers play a crucial role in helping to continue positive in-game relations and are often at the forefront of managing player concerns. 

All video games involving in-game communication with others also feature report options. When players notice toxic or inappropriate behaviour, they can use in-game report functions to immediately relay the problematic interaction in question, which will then be reviewed. Toxic players can either have their accounts temporarily or permanently banned from the game. 

Advertising healthy in-game interactions in esports

Competitive video game scenes such as Fortnite, League of Legends, and Apex Legends have also communicated publicly about the value of positive in-game interactions and behaviours. In 2023, Electronic Arts (publisher of Apex Legends and overseer of the Apex Legends Global Series) introduced their “Positive Player Award,” recognising professional gamers who’s attitude, performance, and support towards their teammates and wider community is exceptionally productive and constructive.  

Their first award winner, Evan “Verhulst” Verhulst, is well known within the Apex Legends community for supporting every teammate, regardless of ability, rank, or competition. Whether he is participating in Pro-Am (professional’s competing with amateurs) tournaments or the Apex Legends professional league, he focuses on clear, effective, a productive communication to uplift those around him. 

Highlighting and rewarding players such as Verhulst helps to promote the best forms of in-game conduct, exemplifying to children and adults alike how a great attitude can help you reach the top of your game. 

How can you help your child maintain positive in-game communication and relationships?

Parents also play a crucial role in encouraging safe, positive interactions online. Although this may seem like a daunting task, there are simple steps you can take to help your child develop good in-game and online behaviours.  

• Check which games have parental controls! Games such as Roblox have features such as chat restrictions and parent pins, helping manage which content and features children can access. 
• When your child first starts playing a game, sit with them and find out where they can report inappropriate players or comments. This way, both of you know how this function works, as its placement can vary from game to game. If you are in doubt, Google is your friend! Many others will have searched for the same function. By sitting down and going through the process with them, they will feel more confident in reporting a player if they need to. 
• Encourage play with friends! Most cooperative or multiplayer games have an option to form a team or enter a game lobby with your friends. Find out the username of a friend who your child knows, and help them to connect their accounts. Most games have an easy friend feature so they can regularly join the game together. 
• Where possible, visit gaming arenas such as New Meta and attend programs such as the New Meta Academy. Being able to interact with other gamers in person provides a helpful reminder that we are all people behind our screens! 
• If you can, hop into a game and learn some of the features yourself! Joining your child’s favourite game with them can be a fantastic way to encourage positive communication and connect with their passion. Fortnite, one of the most popular Battle Royale games, has relatively simple controls and is easy to learn. Why not give gaming a try? 

Mental health charities for gamers

If anyone is struggling with their mental health, particularly if they are uncomfortable with interactions that have happened while gaming, there are several mental health charities that are set up by and run for gamers. 

Safe in our World is a mental health charity dedicated to providing a wide range of resources for gamers struggling with their wellbeing. Their website features information about self-advocacy, anger management, depression, anxiety, sleep help, loneliness, and more. You can also access helplines directly from their site, sorted by region. Alongside their website, Safe in our World have a podcast where they discuss mental health in video games and the wider gaming industry.

TakeThis is a gamer-led mental health charity that partners with industry leaders, mental health professionals, and researchers to improve approaches to mental health within gaming communities. Their website features a helpline finding feature where people can find confidential advice lines in their region. Alongside this, they regularly post blog and article updates on their site with news and updated guidance relating to community mental wellbeing. 

The Twisten Foundation was established in memory of Czech esports professional Karel “Twisten” Ašenbrener by his family after he took his own life in June 2023 after struggling with his mental health. The foundation works to improve mental health support for teenagers in gaming, raising awareness about why increased support for young people is needed and researching how to best support them.

Knowing how to navigate an increasingly digital world can be daunting, but there are always people within the gaming community who are willing to guide you. 

If you are concerned about you or your child’s online interactions and want more support, you can seek further guidance from the organisations above, or visit Play New Meta and speak to our staff – they will be more than happy to help!