Backseat gaming is a term with a not-so-positive meaning. It may be foreign to many. However, for those in the streaming world, it is all but too real. Although, upon seeing it for the first time, you may be baffled or confused. It is not a term associated with cars, but rather on gaming.
If you watch Twitch, Kick, or even YouTube gaming streams, you may have come across. I for one, have seen it used more than once. Furthermore, I have also seen stream viewers commit to doing it, which is not great to see if done the wrong way. If you’re unsure about what “backseat gaming” is, fret not. We have created this article to educate anyone curious on what the meaning of it is. Below we go over the definition of the gaming term plus what its main uses are. Additionally, we also provide examples to clarify how it may look when used in conversation, to paint a better picture as well.
What is the “Backseat Gaming” Meaning in Gaming?
“Backseat gaming” is not a short form of lingo, but a term for giving advice when unwarranted or unsolicited. Specifically in the situation when someone is playing a game with viewers. The practice is most commonly seen in someone streaming a video game. The viewers will profusely give directions to speed up the playthrough – usually when the player is not doing it the way the viewer wishes to see it done.
In streaming, this is frowned upon by many. Streamers like to play games at their pace and how they like. However, when someone comes in and indicates how it should be done, it rubs the wrong way. This isn’t just exclusive to streaming though. Players’ friends telling them what to do is considered backseat gaming. Even more so if the player isn’t asking for any tips or help. The term originates from “backseat driving”, which means to give unsolicited navigating instructions to the driver. Since then, it has made its way into the world of video games.
How to Use “Backseat Gaming” & Examples
Using the term “backseat gaming” correctly is to tell others when they are doing it, while making sure to not do it rudely or inappropriately. It is meant to address others on what they are doing so that the person they are affecting can freely enjoy the game. If the streamer or player asks for tips or criticisms, that’s different. However, if it’s unwarranted, addressing it is best. The following are some examples of the gaming terms in use:
- “Hey, let the person play the game how they wish. Don’t do any backseat gaming in the chat.”
- “I was trying to enjoy the playthrough of Dark Souls, but the backseat gaming was putting a real dampen on my mood.”
- “If I see anyone trying to do backseat gaming while the stream is on, you will get timed out.”
Backseat gaming is a unique gaming term for sure. However, it carries a lot of weight when it comes to players’ experiences in the games they play. Being told how to play something differently from how you want to isn’t fun. Furthermore, it may cause players to be deterred from continuing on with that game. Therefore, backseat gaming is something to be aware of whether in gaming streams or playing in real life. As it’s best to let people enjoy video games how they wish – unless they ask for any tips or suggestions, of course.
That is all there is to know about the backseat gaming meaning. Readers may come across others saying it or even experience it at some point. However, by knowing what it means now, you will be able to address the person doing it. Furthermore, it educates those who knew what what is but were unsure of the exact term.
