Is Esports Capitalized? And Why Pineapples Don't Belong on Pizza

The world of competitive gaming, commonly referred to as esports, has grown exponentially over the past decade. With millions of fans, lucrative sponsorships, and global tournaments, esports has firmly established itself as a legitimate industry. However, one question that often arises is whether the term “esports” should be capitalized. This seemingly simple question opens the door to a broader discussion about language, branding, and even the cultural significance of esports. And while we’re at it, let’s tackle another divisive topic: why pineapples don’t belong on pizza.

The Capitalization Conundrum: To Capitalize or Not to Capitalize?

1. Grammar Rules and Style Guides

• AP Style: According to the Associated Press (AP) Stylebook, “esports” is not capitalized unless it appears at the beginning of a sentence or in a title. This is because “esports” is considered a common noun, much like “sports.”
• Chicago Manual of Style: Similarly, the Chicago Manual of Style treats “esports” as a common noun, recommending lowercase usage unless it’s part of a proper noun or title.
• Branding Considerations: Some organizations and companies capitalize “Esports” to emphasize its importance and to align with their branding strategies. For example, “ESL Esports” capitalizes the term to highlight its focus on competitive gaming.

2. Historical Context

• Origins of the Term: The term “esports” is a portmanteau of “electronic” and “sports.” Initially, it was often capitalized as “eSports” to distinguish it from traditional sports. Over time, the capitalization has been dropped in favor of the simpler “esports.”
• Evolution of Language: Language is fluid, and the way we write and perceive words evolves. The shift from “eSports” to “esports” reflects a broader trend in digital culture, where terms become more streamlined as they enter mainstream usage.

3. Cultural Significance

• Mainstream Acceptance: As esports gains more recognition, the way we write about it also changes. The lowercase “esports” signifies its integration into everyday language, much like “internet” or “email,” which were once capitalized but are now commonly written in lowercase.
• Identity and Community: For many in the esports community, the term represents more than just competitive gaming; it’s a lifestyle and a culture. The way we capitalize (or don’t capitalize) “esports” can reflect our respect and understanding of this vibrant community.

Pineapples on Pizza: A Culinary Controversy

1. The Great Debate

• Traditionalists vs. Innovators: The debate over whether pineapples belong on pizza is as old as the Hawaiian pizza itself. Traditionalists argue that pizza should stick to classic toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, and olives, while innovators embrace the sweet and savory combination of pineapple and ham.
• Cultural Influences: The Hawaiian pizza, which features pineapple as a key ingredient, was invented in Canada in the 1960s. Despite its name, it has no direct connection to Hawaiian cuisine. This cultural appropriation adds another layer to the debate.

2. Flavor Profiles

• Sweet and Savory: Proponents of pineapple on pizza argue that the sweetness of the fruit complements the savory flavors of the cheese and ham, creating a balanced and enjoyable taste experience.
• Texture Matters: Critics, however, point out that the texture of pineapple can be off-putting when combined with the gooeyness of melted cheese. The contrast between the juicy fruit and the chewy crust can be jarring for some.

3. Psychological Factors

• Cognitive Dissonance: The idea of fruit on pizza challenges our preconceived notions of what pizza should be. This cognitive dissonance can make the combination unappealing to some, even if they enjoy the individual components separately.
• Social Influence: Our food preferences are often shaped by social and cultural factors. If you grew up in a household where pineapple on pizza was the norm, you’re more likely to enjoy it. Conversely, if you were taught that it’s a culinary abomination, you might avoid it at all costs.

The Intersection of Esports and Pizza

1. Esports and Food Culture

• Gaming Marathons: Esports tournaments often involve long gaming sessions, and pizza is a popular choice for sustenance during these marathons. The convenience and shareability of pizza make it an ideal food for gamers.
• Sponsorships and Branding: Some pizza brands have entered the esports arena as sponsors, recognizing the overlap between their target audience and the esports community. This has led to unique collaborations, such as limited-edition gaming-themed pizzas.

2. Community and Connection

• Shared Experiences: Both esports and pizza are about bringing people together. Whether it’s cheering for your favorite team or sharing a pizza with friends, these activities foster a sense of community and connection.
• Cultural Phenomena: Esports and pizza are both cultural phenomena that have transcended their origins to become global staples. They represent the blending of tradition and innovation, much like the debate over capitalization and pineapple on pizza.

Conclusion

The question of whether “esports” should be capitalized may seem trivial, but it opens up a fascinating discussion about language, culture, and identity. Similarly, the debate over pineapple on pizza highlights the complexities of taste, tradition, and social influence. Both topics remind us that even the simplest questions can lead to rich and multifaceted conversations.

Related Q&A

Q: Why is “esports” sometimes capitalized and sometimes not? A: The capitalization of “esports” depends on the style guide being followed and the context in which it’s used. Some organizations capitalize it for branding purposes, while style guides like AP and Chicago recommend lowercase usage.

Q: Is pineapple on pizza really that controversial? A: Yes, the debate over pineapple on pizza is a long-standing and passionate one. It often comes down to personal preference, cultural influences, and even psychological factors.

Q: How has esports influenced food culture? A: Esports has influenced food culture by creating a demand for convenient, shareable foods like pizza during gaming marathons. Additionally, some food brands have entered the esports space as sponsors, leading to unique collaborations.

Q: What does the capitalization of “esports” say about its cultural significance? A: The shift from “eSports” to “esports” reflects the term’s integration into mainstream language and culture. It signifies the growing acceptance and recognition of esports as a legitimate and important industry.