Tuesday, February 5, 2008

In Soviet Russia, computer plays you

http://gamepolitics.com/2008/01/17/in-soviet-russia-video-game-kills-you/

This is a funny (by that I mean in the dark, divine comedy sort of way) article about in-game rivalries manifesting into real-world violence. This doesn't really surprise me all that much for two reasons:
1. People have been dating, having intercourse, and complete friendships online and then meeting in the real world. If love can do it, so can enmity.

2. Some people just take MMO's way too seriously. Despite any agenda or message,  I was under the impression that games and fun were not mutually exclusive.

The violence happened because someone's avatar "got dissed" by someone else's. The Coo-Clocks and the Platanium agreed to meet in person and have an "old-fashioned rumble." This is an example of how much a digital identity can become integrated into your life and your real-world reputation (in some circles). In Play Between Worlds, Taylor discusses how some high ranking members of Everquest command great respect during conventions and/ or or other meetings.

No comments: