Smitten Kittens, have you heard of Magic: The Gathering? It's a super popular card game and the vast majority of its fans and players are men. There are all sorts of misconceptions about these players; they're nerdy, socially awkward and not too skilled when it comes to dating. Some have even dubbed playing Magic a deal breaker. So of course when I found out a big Magic event was taking place just a short drive away from me, I had to do some field research.

A few weekends ago, I hit up the California state championship for Magic: The Gathering. I was one of about a dozen women there! In between rounds, I grabbed a four dudes to chat all about Magic, dating and that whole nerd stigma.

First up is James; he's 33 and he runs a business dealing Magic cards.

How do women respond when you tell them you play magic?

Most of them don't know what it is. But, I have had a couple who have said it's pretty nerdy or that someone in their family plays. It's never been a deal breaker as far as I know. I think that most girls don't really care that much since it's my job.

Have you ever dated a girl who played magic?

No. But I have dated a girl who wanted me to teach her to play magic, which I never did.

Why didn't you teach her?

I just didn't want to play Magic with a girl I was dating.

Are there any love lessons to be learned from Magic or Magic mythology?

Not that I can think of, no.

What's the best thing about Magic conventions?

Actually, it's the people. You get to see your friends that aren't around and they'll travel to these things. Sometimes they'll spend the night at your house for the weekend. Most of the people are as nerdy as you think but they aren't as socially awkward as you think. And they are funny and they are fun to hang out with. They're not that weird.

Do you think when people come to events like this, they're in game mode and just focused on winning? Or are they ever interested in talking to the few girls who are here?

I have no idea about that. I've seen a couple of cute girls at these things that I was thinking of talking to, but I don't know, what would I say to them?