The problem with how the term "hardcore" is used is, that as a term, it would describe pretty well someone who's very dedicated. But how this self-proclaimed "hardcore" is using it, means basically what ever they want to "qualify"; it's not hardcore if i don't like it. If we would split it by genres, like hardcore puzzle game fan, hardcore platformer fan, hardcore shooter fan, hardcore sports game fan etc., the word would be descriptive again, but it would also show, that the ones who call themselves hardcore, are wrong with their "hardcore" justification. The issue isn't any different from saying, i'm a hardcore gamer, movies and music suck.
So in the end, "hardcore", as it's seen used, is a defence mechanism (as Kasz already said) used by people who still are in denial.
@DTG: I think your art critic example was pretty descriptive. The "hardcore" we have here are the art critics who have studied Da Vinci.
Ps. The denial stage you're in, should go by when time passes.
Ei Kiinasti.
Eikä Japanisti.
Vaan pannaan jalalla koreasti.
Nintendo games sell only on Nintendo system.
