I don't think there's any question about some members of society who "play games" with language or any other form of communication, but the truth is that games are engaged in by ineffectual people and they are destructive to people who engage in them.

In my view, only the psychopath can play games and win for a short period.
In the long run, he/she becomes an absolute failure in using tricks and deceit.
I think that's why one psychiatrist told me that they don't ever see psychopaths in their offices; they just continue to live ineffective lives.

Never manage your social relationships by playing games; they will backfire on you in the long run. Deal honestly, tactfully, sincerely. That's the only way your own conscience will tolerate social interactions for the long run.

There will be incompatibilities along the way as there are in everything, but
the solid way to good social relations is an honest and cordial but careful
presentation of yourself, your thoughts, and your actions. That's the real
winner in the long run.

You will find yourself being respected and thought highly of for years to come.