Ok ok I know that the title says 5 tips and yes it is 5 tips but we are going way way into detail. The gaming landscape especially for girls has evolved dramatically over the past few years, becoming more diverse. I remember when I used to play competitive games in 2021 I used to know almost every girl that ended up in my lobbies. We all knew each other because there really weren’t that many of us. In 2025, girls and women make up nearly half of all gamers worldwide and yet we still are met with gatekeeping of information, toxicity, and more. With everything I’ve learned I’ve made this guide to give you practical tips to help you navigate your gaming journey with confidence.
Tip #1: Find Your Gaming Style and Platform
There are two major decisions you need to make when you first start gaming: What kinds of games do I like and what platform do I want to use to play them?
Decide on a Gaming Genres
- Narrative Adventures: Games like “The Walking Dead” and “Horizon Zero Dawn: New Frontiers” offer compelling storylines. It can be cool to get a movie like experience with gaming interaction and choices.
- Competitive Play: Titles such as “Valorant”, “Marvel Rivals”, and “Apex Legends” are team-based competitive experiences.
- Creative Builders: Games like “Minecraft” and “Animal Crossing” allow for creative expression and community building as well as a more chill experience.
- Simulation Games: Titles such as “The Sims 5” and “Stardew Valley” offer life simulation experiences.
There are many many other genres to explore but these can be a good place to start exploring which ones you have the most fun playing. I suggest trying a lot of different things maybe even some free games to get a feel for it. Assess what you enjoy: winning, discovering, completing, or relaxing.
Choose Your Platform
- PC Gaming: Offers the widest variety of games and customization options, though can be pricey and hard to commit to if you are just starting out.
- Consoles: PlayStation 6, Xbox Series X Pro, and Nintendo Switch 2 provide straightforward, dedicated gaming experiences.
- Mobile Gaming: The most accessible entry point with thousands of games available on smartphones and tablets.
There is no right or wrong answer here it really is up to the games you want to play and then figuring out the best way to do that.
Tip #2: Building Your Community
The social aspect of gaming has been one of the most fun parts for me. I’ve enjoyed making so many friends from all over the world and enjoying different games together.
Finding Welcoming Communities
- Women-Focused Discord Servers: There are so many different communities like this out there. It can be intimidating at first but they offer a lot of support and resources.
- Identity-Based Gaming Organizations: Groups like Black Girl Gamers, Latinx in Gaming, and Queer Women in Games.
Managing Online Interactions
- Privacy Settings: Make sure to familiarize yourself with platform-specific privacy options to control who can contact you. Make sure the outside world can only see what you want them to see.
- Voice Chat Considerations: Many games offer text-only options if you’re not comfortable using voice chat initially. you will become more comfortable as you get used to things but take advantage of your settings and options.
- Reporting Systems: Learn how to report harassment because it is the best thing we can do.
Building a supportive community takes time and I have found the best ones happen organically. You may just have a really fun game with a group of being and be welcomed in. My very first friend group online I still hang out with today.
Tip #3: Developing Skills at Your Own Pace
When you start playing any game you cannot expect to be that good and that’s okay. Really that is the fun part. You get to progress over time and be proud of your accomplishments.
Skill-Building Approaches
- Practice Modes: Many games offer excellent single-player modes where you can practice without pressure. There are practice ranges, custom games, and difficulty options to practice your skills. Even unrated modes are meant to enjoy and practice.
- AI Training: Many 2025 games include AI companions that adapt to your skill level for personalized practice. In Marvel Rivals the Practice vs. AI function has three different difficulties where you can really learn at your own pace.
The Learning Curve
- Set Personal Goals: Focus on your own improvement rather than comparing yourself to others.
- Watch other Players: I highly recommend watching streamers or professional players of the games you want to get better at.
Tip #4: Invest Wisely in Your Gaming Setup
Everyone starts out with a simple setup. As you play you will figure out what you really need and what is worth it to you.
Essential Equipment to Consider
- Controllers and Mice
- Comfortable Seating
- Audio Equipment: headphones!!
Budget-Friendly Approaches
- Start Simple: Begin with basic equipment and upgrade gradually as you feel like u need to.
- Research Used Options: Many people will sell barely-used equipment when upgrading. Check twitter when you search!
- Subscription Services: Game Pass Ultimate, PlayStation Plus Premium, and Nintendo Online Expanded all offer extensive libraries of games for a monthly fee. It’s a good way to try a bunch of stuff out before you commit to purchasing certain games.
Tip #5: Navigate and Shape Gaming Culture
As a girl entering gaming in 2025, you’re not just participating in gaming culture—you’re helping shape its future.
Dealing with Toxicity
- Set Boundaries: Don’t let anyone push your boundaries. You get to decide what you want to share or do online.
- Find Allies: Connect with players who you have fun with and are respectful.
- Pick Your Battles: Sometimes disengaging from toxicity is the best strategy for your wellbeing or sometimes it’s not…
Being Part of Positive Change
- Support Inclusive Content Creators: Follow streamers and YouTubers who promote positive gaming environments and support them. It’s free to like, thumbs up, share, retweet, and more which goes a long way for creators.
- Highlight Women in Gaming: Follow professional female gamers, developers, and esports competitors who inspire you.
- Share Your Perspective: Your voice and experiences matter in discussions about gaming.
Remember that by simply participating authentically, you’re helping make gaming more inclusive for everyone who comes after you. Gaming in 2025 offers so many new opportunities for girls to find communities, develop skills, and express themselves creatively. Hopefully these tips are helpful for anyone just starting out so that you can have the best experience possible!