Over the years, I've watched as certain labels on these here forums have degenerated into negative meanings. I want to go into why people are using these specific labels wrongly:
If I offend someone- well- sorry.
1. Casuals:
There are two types of casuals:
a. "Casual": these are people that do not get to play as often as they would like to. However, these folks actually do put some effort into their characters while they are on. Every casual that I know in game makes sure they at least gem their gear.
These folks also do a little research or at least ask for advice when it comes to their characters. These folks actually do try whenever they get in a group- they may not be the cream of the crop, but they understand what a dps rotation is, try to understand boss mechanics, and try to raid normals when time allows them to.
Due to whatever real life schedule, they may only get to raid normals once or twice a month- for them, LFR is perfect. These folks also generally stick to normal raiding- when they can.
b. "Baduals": these people are completely clueless even though they may log in every single day. These are the people that don't bother to gem their gear, don't bother putting any research into their class, and expect everyone else to carry them. These are the same folks that make absurd claims about this game is too hard. These folks absolutely love to throw out the "casual" title when defending themselves.
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2. Middle of the pack folks:
This group is in a fine line between casual and hardcore. These folks may attempt a heroic mode, but usually stick to normals- where they feel comfortable. These folks do log in every day, but do something different every day: be it pvp, LFR, normals raiding, soloing an old dungeon, going for walks.
I consider a lot of the playerbase around the middle of the pack.
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2. Hardcore:
There are two category of hardcores:
a. The real hardcore: These folks really have no issue with anyone else seeing content. These folks also don't go around insulting every other gamer that isn't up to their standards. They also don't complain because other people that aren't them are getting epics. These folks are also happy to give anyone that is willing to listen advice on a particular class or even fight strategies.
b. The wannabe hardcore: We all know this guy: hasn't finished a full tier of heroic raiding, but feels the need to insult everyone else. He feels that everyone should lick his feet and hero worship him because he's somehow "better" than everyone else (even though that particular heroic raid may be the first time he's ever done heroic raiding).
These are the folks that make the real hardcores look like a bunch of elitist jerks.
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Where am I going with this?
Well for one, I see people mix up the term "casual" with meaning bad all of the time. And it's not true. Most casuals I know are pretty decent players. It's the baduals that make the term casual a bad thing.
As for the hardcores: look I have no qualms with you if you treat other players with a shred of respect. A majority of the hardcores I know do treat people with respect. It's the wannabe hardcores that ruin the hardcore image.
I think we really need to start getting these things straight.