Carry: What Does it Mean to Carry in Online Multiplayer Games?

In the context of gaming, the term "carry" refers to a player who takes on a significant role in leading their team to victory and carrying the game. The concept of carrying originates from multiplayer team based games, where individual players have the potential to exert a major impact on the outcome of the match. Naturally, this means that the term can be used either in an FPS game like Valorant, or a MOBA like League of Legends ^[1].

A carry player is typically responsible for dealing high amounts of damage, making crucial plays, and often taking the lead in terms of strategy and decision making. They possess the skills and game knowledge to influence the game's outcome in their team's favor, often through exceptional performance in their chosen role or character. Basically, if someone’s playing much better than a majority of their other teammates, then chances are they'll be considered to be a carry.

Carry roles can vary depending on the game. In a game like League of Legends, for instance, the carry role often falls to the ADC or the Mid Lane player. ADC champions typically focus on dealing sustained damage in team fights, while Mid Lane champions often have high burst damage potential and can exert map control through roaming and securing objectives.

The carry player's main objective is to acquire a significant advantage over their opponents and utilize it to lead their team to victory. They often focus on farming resources, acquiring items or experience, and coordinating with their team to secure objectives such as towers, neutral monsters, or key map control points.

Can Anyone Be a Carry?

With that being said, can anyone be a carry? Well, in theory, yes. However, there are several qualities you need if you want to be able to successfully carry your teammates in any game. Carrying a game requires not only mechanical skill but also strategic decision making, map awareness, and teamwork. 

A carry player needs to have a strong understanding of the game's mechanics, the strengths and weaknesses of their character or role, and the ability to make quick and effective decisions in high-pressure situations.

While carrying a game can be exhilarating and rewarding, it also comes with high expectations and responsibilities. The success of the team often relies heavily on the carry player's performance. 

However, it's important to note that carrying a game does not mean disregarding the contributions of other team members. Teamwork and coordination are still crucial factors in achieving victory, and the carry player should be mindful of supporting and collaborating with their teammates.

References

1. [1] "League of Legends official website". www.leagueoflegends.com. Retrieved September 06, 2024