Multiplayer Games and Their Toxic Communities
Finding a multiplayer video game with a supportive and non-toxic community is no easy task. Titles like League of Legends, VALORANT, Counter-Strike, Call of Duty, and even Magic: The Gathering are plagued by toxic players who seem determined to suck the fun out of the game. This has led many players to blame the communities for ruining their favorite titles. A recent Reddit post asked for opinions on games that have been destroyed by their user bases, and the response was overwhelming. Games such as League, Magic: The Gathering, CoD, Rocket League, Dota 2, Rainbow Six Siege, and Mortal Kombat were among the most commonly mentioned. Surprisingly, VALORANT didn’t receive as much criticism, but it has still suffered due to its stubborn community. In fact, the thread revealed that nearly every online multiplayer game is now dominated by a meta-focused culture, which has taken away from the essence of gaming.
The Negative Impact of Meta Culture
One player expressed their frustration with the meta culture in gaming, citing examples like Warzone and Elden Ring. The pressure to conform to specific strategies and gear choices has limited their creativity and enjoyment of these games. Unfortunately, this meta-focused mentality is prevalent in all competitive games, stifling individuality and forcing players into a narrow mindset. As one player put it, “Mmorpgs where people expect you to watch a full guide and know perfect rotations and / or have add-ons that explain every little bit of fun mechanics in the game to the point where you may as well be botting.” This highlights the excessive expectations and lack of freedom within the MMO community.
Games with Supportive Communities
Given the prevalence of toxic communities, some players suggested focusing on games that haven’t been ruined by their user bases. However, the list of such games was significantly shorter. Nevertheless, a few titles stood out for having cool and supportive communities. Warframe topped the list, followed by Deep Rock Galactic, Stardew Valley, and Final Fantasy XIV.
The Need for Change
It is disheartening that almost every multiplayer game today fosters toxic behavior. Players with rigid notions of what is “right” impose their views on others, creating a toxic culture that ruins the gaming experience. It is important to be the change we want to see. Embrace off-meta choices, encourage teammates to have fun rather than obsessing over optimal strategies, and appreciate aesthetics over stats. Let’s strive to create a more positive and enjoyable gaming environment.
Source: DOTESPORTS
