What do you think when someone says "its just a game"?

The phrase it's just a "blank" can be used for anything. It's not only showcased towards games but the viewpoint of anyone with an indifferent attitude towards said subject.

That being said. I feel personally it's a bit close-minded. If you enjoy a hobby. It is not just a "blank" to you. And there's communities behind said topic which further makes it more important to them. It's just a "blank" is old thinking in my honest opinion. If an individual is not into something by all means no ones forcing you to enjoy it but you shouldn't demean others for having that viewpoint. That being said. It's not is if my opinion will matter to them but I know who to avoid lol.

I play casually but I want to play professionally eventually. Namely in 1v1 fighting games or arena games that are item-less and does not have any currency to affect the overall experience. I love League of Legends as a fandom (I mean the lore,characters,etc. Less about the community because of how toxic it is) but I wouldn't put so much stock into playing it competitively because it's really annoying tbh. Not to mention it can get monotonous. In reference to the aforementioned currency and items. I want to get back into it fully (Hopefully when I can remember to do so) but it wouldn't be my first choice for competitive play.

That being said there's less provocative reasons why some people can say it. I have uttered said phrase before but for less alienating reasons. Because while wanting to get better can be a focal point. You also shouldn't bring forth toxicity to said medium. So when the phrase is used appropriately without malice. It can be a good tool.

They say it so you won't get so worked up

Usually I treat them with silence and a big smile , it pisses them off more lol

It's never just a game! There is always pride in the line gotdammit!

I say something... usually... like this.
"Motherfucker! How fucking dare you!? This game IS my life! I dropped outta school, I abandoned my family, and I locked myself in my room with only Cheetohs and Mountain Dew so I could be the master of this game and you come and tell me it's a game, YOU FUCKING IDIOT!"
You know. A reasonable response