Breaking Down the ‘Git Gud’ Mentality: A Cold Take Perspective

In this week’s Cold Take, Frost delves into Armored Core 6, questioning the ‘git gud’ mantra and exploring the limits of skill-based critique.

Welcome to this week’s Cold Take, where we venture into the realm of Armored Core 6 and dive deep into the enigmatic world of the ‘git gud’ mentality. Brace yourselves as we dissect the layers of skill and critique in the gaming universe.

There’s a peculiar phrase echoing through the gaming jungles: “Git Gud.” But what exactly does it mean? It’s the battle cry of the skill-focused gamer, a creature scientifically identified as the FromSoftwareus Sapien. Deployed as a universal defense mechanism, it acts as a shield against critiques, signaling that any discussion will be met with a counterattack on the challenger’s gaming prowess. Essentially, it implies that any issues faced in the game are solely due to the player’s lack of expertise and comprehension. “The game is flawless; you are the flaw.” Now, I enjoy a good challenge, and I consider myself adept at video games – despite the tiny microchip in my brain that occasionally hinders my dexterity, a memento from my days as a games journalist. So, I ask: how proficient must one become before their critique is deemed valid? Is there a point of diminishing returns where being ‘too gud’ renders one’s critique irrelevant to the average player?

Join me as we navigate the intricate landscape of skill and criticism in the gaming world, questioning the very foundation of the ‘git gud’ mantra. Together, we’ll unravel the layers of expertise and delve into the heart of what makes a critique truly valid in the vast realm of gaming.