I haven’t purchased World of Warcraft yet, but a columnist for Venturebeat shares her observations as her husband and brother-in-law talked about the game. I found her account interesting and has a couple tips for new WoW users.
When a new player starts playing WoW, they must understand that there is a learning curve and need to adjust to new environments. Essentially, show some humility and be willing to learn.
Help others first before asking (or expecting) help. While you may be new, you can certainly bring many qualities to a team that they might not know. For example, if you aren’t the best fighter, be a good resource and stay on the look out for enemies.
Online community is the same. You can’t just show up at a new community and start ratting off things you hate about them, or they should do something else. You need to observe and take in the dynamics of the community then ease yourself into them. It’s good to have something to offer in the way of knowledge or expertise so they value you right away, but this isn’t necessary as if you ask questions, that can contribute to the discussions.
Be a good leader. While some communities online are “hosted,” it doesn’t make it better. If you take the initiative to inspire and encourage others to manage themselves and let their creatively expand — the community as a whole grows. As you lead others, they will lead others, and others will lead others. It’s a win-win situation for all.
I observed via my friend Rachel, she is a major WoW fanatic — but she is committed to her online teammates, as if they were right next door. This sense of commitment is necessary for her team to stay alive and prosper. Much like online communties, if no one respects it or is willing to “take one for the team,” then it will collapse.
Anyhow, that’s my thoughts on it. I’ll probably join WoW soon. We’ll see.
