As a veteran Flamer, I've been asked by several individuals to explain the art of Flamage. We call it "The Game" because it is likened to an internet version of chess. Many components figure into this game. Word skills, psychology, and strategy are what I consider the main three. Then the lesser areas would also include, some technical skill, humor, a decent grasp of grammar / spelling, the ability to remain calm, and to never take it personal. The game is addictive , and Flamers live for the game. The lure of the win, the intrigue and watching an opponent crumble in living color on your screen are very satisfying indeed. On the flip side of that, is the humiliation of losing a battle. A good player will always tell you that it is just a game, and losing is part of the experience. We all lose now and then. There are several different types of Flamers. In my opinion there are only three types that matter. Power Flamers. The Leaders. Power Flamers are those people who post with authority, and solid confidence. Usually these are the most respected and feared. Power Flamers use logic and facts, their intelligence is obvious, and their posts always well written. Power Flamers also have charisma, that certain something that is unexplainably both sexy and arouses others to follow. The Soldiers These are people who have varying degrees of skill, some on their way up to P.F. status, and some who remain in the middle. The soldiers of the game, hang in there, winning some and losing some. They most often align themselves with one leader or group, and fight as a team. The Bottom Feeder The morons, idiots, rejects, whiners, retards, spankards, and sore losers. These are the ones who resort to other less respectable means of playing the Game. Rules of Engagement: These are some, but not all the parameters. 1. Never make a claim you can't back up 2. Never lose your cool. 3. Do your homework. 4. Never post personal info 5. Never threaten to take it to RL Below are some links that further explain the art of Flaming. Have fun my spankards and come back soon ! 'Flame Warriors' 'How To Participate In An Internet Flame War' 'A Guide to Flaming'