Overheard a guy at my local game shop say "gatekeeping is fine" and it got me thinking

He said something like "if you can't handle a four-hour rulebook, stick to checkers" and the new guy just walked out looking embarrassed. It made me wonder how many potential gaming buddies we lose because of stuff like this. Have you guys ever called someone out for being elitist at your table?

3 comments

3 Comments

the_emery9h ago

Notice how gatekeeping pops up ANYWHERE people want to feel superior about their hobby, not just games but coffee, music, even what kind of shoes you wear. It's really just about making yourself feel important by putting someone else down, which pushes away people before they even get a chance to enjoy the thing. We kill our own communities when we act like there's only ONE right way to be a fan.

emmag2213h ago

I've noticed this same gatekeeping thing at my local coffee shop where regulars scoff at anyone ordering "basic lattes" like it's some kind of personal flaw. It's totally the same pattern of making people feel unwelcome for not meeting random made-up standards.

james_campbell1211h ago

Call emmag22 a coffee snob and watch them choke on their pour-over. Nothing says "elite coffee drinker" like ordering something with three words and a tiny cup. These people act like owning a Chemex makes them a certified barista. Let them gatekeep all they want, I'll be over here with my "basic" caramel latte and zero regrets.