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Writer's pictureRodrigo Fernández

What Type of Player Are You? Bartle Taxonomy in Video Games.

Bartle taxonomy is a system of classifying video game players into four categories based on their preferred behavior within the game. It is named after Richard Bartle, who first identified the categories in his paper "Hearts, Clubs, Diamonds, Spades: Players Who Suit MUDs".


The four categories are Achievers, Explorers, Socializers, and Killers. Achievers are players who enjoy pursuing in-game goals and accomplishments, such as collecting items and reaching high scores. Explorers like to discover the game world and its rules, often taking on the role of a detective. Socializers bond with other players and enjoy the game's social aspects. Killers are players who enjoy competing against other players and take on the role of an aggressor.


The 4 kind of players in the Bartle Taxonomy.
The Bartle Taxonomy | Image Credit: wikipedia.com

Understanding the different types of players can help game designers create a more enjoyable game for everyone.


Achievers

Achiever players in Bartle taxonomy are those who enjoy achieving points, levels, and other in-game rewards. They are driven by the need to progress and improve their characters, and take pride in their accomplishments. Achievers are usually quite competitive and strive to be the best at their particular game.


One of the most important aspects of an achiever player is their ability to set goals and work toward them. This can be seen with their desire to level up, gain new items, or simply complete a quest. It is this drive to succeed that gives them the motivation to keep playing and to continuously improve their characters.


Achievers also tend to be quite active within their gaming communities. They love to help others out with tips, advice, and strategies, as well as join in conversations and debates. This helps them to stay connected to their peers and increase their knowledge of the game.


An Achievement Unlocked graphic.
Achievement Unlocked Graphic | Image Credit: xbox.com

Finally, achievers are also quite focused on their gaming and spend a lot of time on the game. This can make it difficult for them to take breaks or find other activities to do in their free time. It is important to remember that while they may enjoy playing the game and achieving their goals, they should not forget to take time for themselves and enjoy other activities as well.


I remember spending too much time in Death Stranding, trying to achieve the Platinum Trophy. It's easy to lose track of time when you are focused on bigger goals, such as completing the game 100%.


Overall, achiever players in Bartle taxonomy are those who are driven to succeed in the game and take pride in their accomplishments. They are active in the gaming community and enjoy helping others out. However, it is important to remember that they should take breaks from the game and find other activities to take part in.


Explorers

Explorers are players who are always looking for new challenges, to explore virtual worlds and uncover hidden secrets. As part of the Bartle Taxonomy of Player Types, Explorers are those who seek out the unknown and uncover the hidden secrets of a game.


Explorers are driven by curiosity and the desire to experience something new. They love to explore unknown environments and uncover the secrets that lie within. Explorers are often the first to find a new location, the first to discover a new item, or the first to make a new discovery. Explorers are also creative thinkers and problem solvers, eager to find solutions to the puzzles they encounter in a game.


They have a unique approach to gaming, often taking a more relaxed pace than some of the other player types. They are usually content to take their time and explore the game, discovering new secrets and uncovering the secrets of the game.


The Witcher 3 has many exploring to be done.
A Sunset in The Witcher's 3 World | Image Credit: gamingpitstop.com

Explorers tend to be more solitary players, but that doesn't mean they don't enjoy the company of other players. Explorers might join forces with like-minded gamers to uncover secrets together or to share the experience.


Explorers are an important part of any online gaming community, and their contributions are invaluable. They provide a unique perspective on the game and can help uncover hidden secrets that may have gone unnoticed. So, if you're ever in need of some help exploring a game, don't forget to call the Explorers!


Socializers

Gamers who enjoy playing online games mainly for the social aspect are known as socializers. These players rely on the connection with other players, and as such, they prefer to interact with other gamers in the game and build relationships. They strive to make the game more enjoyable for themselves and others by creating unique experiences and facilitating conversations. In Bartle taxonomy, socializers are categorized as those who focus on socializing in the game, often forming groups and cooperating with others.


Socializers engage with other players by role-playing, forming clans or guilds, and participating in other activities that promote social interaction. Socializers often prefer playing with friends and enjoy the challenge of working together to achieve a common goal. They also seek recognition from others and can often be found in leaderboard-type games.


World of Warcraft is an RPG game with a heavy socializing element.
World Of Warcraft | Image Credit: playwarcraft3.com

Socializers have a great impact on the gaming experience. They provide atmosphere and can make a game more enjoyable for everyone. In addition, their involvement in the game often encourages other players to join in, creating a larger and more positive gaming community.


Overall, socializers are an important part of gaming culture and can make a huge difference in the online gaming world. They provide a unique way of playing games and can make the gaming experience more enjoyable and meaningful.


Killers

If you’ve ever played an online game, you’ve probably encountered a "killer player" at some point. These players are often characterized by their aggressive behavior, often taking out other players in the game with little mercy. But what exactly is a "killer player" and how do they fit into the Bartle taxonomy?


Explorers are motivated by curiosity and the need to discover new areas and items, Socializers enjoy interacting with other players, and Killers focus on competing with and dominating other players.


Killer players are often the most visible in a game, as their aggressive behavior stands out from the rest of the players. They thrive on competition, and are always on the lookout for a challenge. They are often skilled players, as they rely on their reflexes and gaming skills to take out their opponents. They also tend to be more confrontational, and aren’t afraid to take risks in order to win.


Doom Eternal is a fun game for Killer type players. It relies heavily on fast-paced action.
Doom Eternal | Image Credit: xbox.com

Killer players are an important part of the Bartle taxonomy, as they provide the game with an element of excitement and competition. Without killer players, the game would be far less dynamic and interesting.


What kind of player are you? Do you have different playing types, depending on the game you are playing? Let me know in the comments down below.


Happy Gaming.


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