Minmaxing: Why Do It?

A lot of people claim that the easiest way to make an RPG boring is minmaxing. For those not in the know, the term "minmaxing" basically means using considerable knowledge, research and experience to choose gear that will minimize damage input, mana usage, and so on, while maximizing healing, offensive or defensive capabilities. 

Some claim it takes the fun out of the game, but it's easily arguable that those people are missing one crucial fact: minmaxing is totally optional if you're not concerned with winning. If you are, then minmaxing is no different to any other competitive game - you study the odds, you use proven strategies, and whatever works is what you use. 

This site is dedicated to recommending the best items for each slot for any given class, and that's no different to recommending the ideal sports gear, or the best parts to use in a computer or a car. You could be a Party Poker player with your eye on the prize or you could be a professional-level Arena player in WoW - minmaxing is what gives you an edge. 

It's hard work, but being able to know that you're going in as well-prepared as possible is ideal, and it also means that you're learning more about the game's inner workings, allowing you to know where to be, and when to be there, to maximise your potential in a raid or an Arena match. 

Minmaxing tends to make people think of nerds and spreadsheets, but realistically, it's no different to arguing the merits of a sports team lineup. Some may argue that it's sucking the fun out of the game, but other see it simply as taking the game seriously and engaging with it on a level that few others are willing to, to accomplish things few others want to. Go minmax - you'll be pleased at the results!