Let’s face it, the gaming community isn’t exactly known for being a supportive and kind place, but every once in while it’s one of the most wholesome places on the internet.
A group of Rocket League players recently impressed the gaming community with their unplanned tribute to those affected by suicide.
Sharing the story on Reddit, a user named neeman70 writes: “Just shared a moment of silence with these great dudes. One of them was recently affected by a suicide so we all stopped playing and shared stories how we have all been affected by suicide. What a great community <3 <3.”
Unfortunately, not too many other people on the Reddit post had enjoyed similar experiences, with dozens of people complaining about the trolls.
One user writes: “The toxicity is so bad that a kid yesterday thought we were the trolls for telling him to stop spamming what a save to the other team. He thought it was just part of the game and we we’re being toxic by telling him to hush. Apparently ‘KYS’ is an appropriate response to ‘be nice, this is all for fun.’
“When your player base thinks being a quick chat douche is the norm, there’s a problem.”
Another added: “Last night I was in a couple of competitive matches with a random. We won the first one. He scored twice and I scored the game winner. We gave each other compliments.
“Next match it was tied and towards the end the ball was in our end. I didn’t see him and was just trying to clear the ball. It hit the side wall and bounced to the middle and the other team scored.
“He then just started bashing me tell me I cost us the game, he was about to score, nobody trusts anybody in this game.
“I just said sorry and moved on. But geez, calm down. 1. It’s just a game. 2. Not everyone’s a pro. And 3. From my point of view I didn’t know you were there and was just doing the best I could from my position to get the ball out of there.
“Problem is some people take this way to seriously.”
The gaming community is rife with toxicity, and it’s something that desperately needs to change.
However, when you do meet players like neeman70 and his fellow Rocket League-ers, it makes the experience of playing a game just so much more special.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, you are not alone. The CALMzone offer amazing support to anyone who feels that they are in a dark place.
The helpline and web chat service are open 5pm to midnight, every day of the year. Nationwide: 0800 58 58 58; London: 0808 802 58; Webchat: www.thecalmzone.net/get-help
You can contact the Samaritans on a Freephone number – 116 123. Alternatively, you can email jo@samaritans.org
Featured Image Credit: Psyonix