The Fellowship of the Game

FLGS and more
Having just spent a couple weeks in San Diego, I am once again reminded of the wonderful friendliness of our hobby. While on location, I was able to visit three local SD game stores, At Ease Games, Empire Games and The Villainous Lair and was welcomed by staff and customers at all three. I have experienced the same open reception and eagerness to meet a fellow hobbyist and share a game most everywhere I have been these past 40+ years.
The Friendly Local Game Store or FLGS has been a place to meet other gamers as well as to buy games. Today's FLGS usually has a "gaming area" with tables and chairs where gamers can play and socialize. Even before tables became prevalent, the FLGS was a place to meet other people interested in games. Most had bulletin boards where we could post "players wanted" notes. The nicer store owners would even take names and numbers and try and match-up interested customers with other customers of a similar age and interest. In fact, this is precisely how I met my first "gaming buddy".
The hobby has always been one of acceptance and tolerance. Most referee's have run an open table either at the FLGS, school game club or at a convention where anyone is welcome. Just show and interest and an invitation to join in usually comes quickly. Other players are usually eager to help teach the system and bring the new player up to speed on campaign details. It's always been a friendly hobby open to everyone with an imagination and some manners.
As the hobby matured, we insiders have started to discuss and write about introducing new players in the friendliest manner, making the game more fair and empowering everyone's idea of fun. Respect for diversity and tolerance of players having different goals for playing has become the norm. Creating a safe place for everyone to enjoy themselves and have fun together is a valued goal of most gamers, referee and player alike. The shared interest and love of the hobby brings all who participate into a happy place where fun is anticipated and eagerly shared. Friendships frequently follow. In many ways, it can be said, this is the best part of the hobby.