Man gets ‘virtually slapped’ 4,800 times with eggs & sandals, sues gaming firm in China
Gaming has always been a popular form of entertainment, and with the rise of online multiplayer games, it has become even more accessible and engaging. However, with great power comes great responsibility, and sometimes, gamers can take their frustrations out on each other in ways that are not only hurtful but also harmful. A recent case in China highlights this issue, where a Chinese man sued a gaming firm, claiming that he was subjected to “virtual slaps” 4,800 times in six months, causing him to fall into depression.
The incident occurred in the multiplayer game “Three Kingdoms Kill Online”, where players could see each other’s avatars being slapped with eggs and sandals. The man, who wants to remain anonymous, claimed that he was the target of these virtual attacks because he was winning games consistently, and other players were frustrated with his success. According to the man, the constant slapping caused him to feel embarrassed and humiliated, which ultimately led to a decline in his self-esteem and depression.
The man’s lawsuit alleges that the game’s developer, Shengqu Games, failed to provide adequate measures to prevent such harassment and did not take sufficient action to address the issue when he reported it. He is seeking compensation for his emotional distress and is demanding that the game be modified to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The incident has sparked a heated debate in China about the impact of online gaming on mental health. While some argue that the game is just a form of entertainment and that players should be able to take the virtual slaps in stride, others believe that the constant harassment and bullying can have serious consequences for players’ mental well-being.
The case also raises questions about the responsibility of game developers to ensure that their games are safe and respectful environments for all players. While games can be a great way to socialize and have fun, they can also be a breeding ground for bullying and harassment. Developers have a responsibility to create games that are enjoyable and engaging for all players, while also providing adequate measures to prevent and address harassment.
In the United States, the issue of online harassment and bullying has been gaining increasing attention in recent years. In 2018, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued a report on the impact of online harassment on mental health, which found that 43% of Americans reported experiencing online harassment, and that it can have serious consequences for mental health, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The report also highlighted the importance of game developers taking steps to prevent and address online harassment. The FTC recommended that developers implement measures such as in-game reporting tools, community guidelines, and consequences for players who engage in harassment.
In conclusion, the case of the Chinese man who was “virtually slapped” 4,800 times with eggs and sandals highlights the importance of game developers taking responsibility for creating safe and respectful environments for all players. While games can be a fun and enjoyable way to socialize and have fun, they can also be a breeding ground for bullying and harassment. Game developers must take steps to prevent and address online harassment, and players must be aware of the potential risks and consequences of engaging in such behavior.
