Man Gets ‘Virtually Slapped’ 4,800 Times with Eggs & Sandals, Sues Gaming Firm in China
In a bizarre case of virtual bullying, a Chinese man has sued the makers of a popular multiplayer game, claiming that the constant “virtual slaps” he received from other players pushed him into depression.
The game in question is “Three Kingdoms Kill Online”, a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game that has gained immense popularity in China. However, for one player, the experience was not as enjoyable as he had hoped. The man, who has chosen to remain anonymous, claims that he was subjected to a staggering 4,800 “virtual slaps” in just six months.
But what exactly do we mean by “virtual slaps”? In the game, players can use various items to express frustration or disappointment when they lose a match. These items include eggs and sandals, which are used to “slap” the opponent’s in-game character. While this may seem like a harmless form of playful banter, the constant barrage of virtual slaps took a toll on the player’s mental health.
According to the player’s lawsuit, the constant ridicule and humiliation he suffered in the game caused him to feel ashamed and humiliated. He claimed that seeing other players slap his character repeatedly in front of a live audience of thousands of players damaged his self-esteem and led to depression.
The player’s lawsuit seeks damages of 50,000 yuan ($7,000) from the game’s developers, as well as compensation for his mental health struggles. In a statement, the player said, “I never thought that a game would bring me such harm. I just wanted to play with friends, but the constant slapping and humiliation made me feel like I was being bullied.”
The game’s developers have yet to respond to the lawsuit, but the incident has sparked a wider debate about the impact of online gaming on mental health in China. With the country’s gaming industry growing rapidly, concerns about the potential consequences of excessive gaming are increasingly being raised.
The case has also highlighted the need for game developers to take a more proactive approach to ensuring a safe and respectful gaming environment. While virtual slaps may seem like a harmless form of humor, they can have serious consequences for players who are already vulnerable to bullying or harassment.
In an age where online gaming is becoming increasingly popular, it is crucial that game developers prioritize player well-being and take steps to prevent bullying and harassment. The “Three Kingdoms Kill Online” incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of creating a positive and inclusive gaming environment.
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