If you play online games, you’ve probably seen the letters “GG” typed in chat. You may have wondered what it means or when to say it. This short phrase has become a common way for players to show respect after a match. It’s used in games across all types—from first-person shooters to strategy games, from casual play to competitive esports.
Let’s break down what GG means, when to use it, and how to keep it polite.
What Does GG Mean?
GG stands for “Good Game.” It’s a short message that players send to each other at the end of a match. Saying GG is a way to tell others the game was fun or fair, even if you lost. It shows good manners in online gaming.
You’ll see GG used in popular games like Fortnite, Valorant, League of Legends, CS:GO, and Call of Duty. It’s also common in mobile games, browser-based games, and multiplayer apps. Whether you type it or say it out loud, GG means you respect the match and the other players.
When and Why Do Gamers Say GG?
Gamers use GG for different reasons, but the meaning is mostly positive. Here are some common moments when GG appears:
- After a fair or close match
- At the end of a team victory
- Even after a loss, to show good spirit
- To end the match on a polite note
- In ranked games, to maintain good etiquette
In many team games, GG is like a digital handshake. It replaces the real-life handshake people do after sports matches. It shows you cared about the game and treated others with respect.
Good GG vs Bad GG: What’s the Difference?
Not every GG is polite. Some players use it to brag or insult others. Here’s how to tell the difference.
Good GG:
- Said after the game ends
- Used by both winners and losers
- Often followed by “WP” (Well Played)
Bad GG:
- Said early while the match is still going
- Used in a mocking way (e.g., “GGEZ”)
- Used to make others feel bad after losing
If someone says “GGEZ” (Good Game Easy), it can sound rude. It makes it seem like the game wasn’t a challenge. That can upset players, especially in ranked or competitive matches.
GG Variations You Should Know
Online gamers use more than just GG. Here are some other common short phrases you’ll see:
- GLHF – Good Luck, Have Fun (said at the start of the match)
- WP – Well Played
- NT – Nice Try
- BG – Bad Game (not polite, used to complain)
- GGWP – Good Game, Well Played (very respectful)
These terms appear in both text chat and voice chat. You’ll also see them on platforms like Discord, Twitch, and YouTube comments during gaming events.
How to Say GG the Right Way
Using GG the right way is easy. Just follow these simple steps:
- Wait until the game ends before typing or saying anything
- Type “GG” in the chat or say it over voice if the game allows
- Use it with a friendly tone, especially in team-based games
- Add extras like “WP” or “GLHF” to show more support
- Avoid saying it in the middle of the match unless it’s a surrender or early exit
Saying GG doesn’t cost anything. But it does add respect to the game and keeps the experience friendly.
GG in Esports and Streaming
In professional esports matches, GG is also used to end a round or match. Players type GG to signal that the match is over and to show honor to the opponent. You’ll often see “GG” pop up in the in-game chat or on-screen during a match stream.
Viewers on Twitch or YouTube Gaming also spam “GG” in the live chat when a team wins or after a big play. In these cases, GG becomes part of the event, not just the game.
On Discord servers, players may also type “GG” in group chats after a session ends. It works just as well there.
Conclusion
“GG” is more than two letters. It’s a sign of sportsmanship and a simple way to say, “That was fun.” Whether you win or lose, saying GG shows you respect the game and the people you play with.
So next time you finish a match, remember to type or say GG. It’s a small gesture that keeps the gaming world a little more friendly.
Want to share how you use GG in your favorite game? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let others know what good sportsmanship looks like online.