Toxicity in online gaming refers to negative behavior such as verbal abuse, griefing, cheating, or bullying that makes the game less enjoyable for others. Toxic behavior can have a serious impact on players’ experiences, making them feel unwelcome, threatened or scared, and can lead to a decline in the game’s community, and popularity. To address this, games now have dedicated moderators, community managers, reporting systems, and sometimes offer rewards for positive behavior. Overwatch has made significant strides in this area through its reporting and penalty system, code of conduct, commendation system, and efforts to reduce toxicity within the game.

Introduction

Gaming communities have long struggled with the issue of toxicity. From verbal abuse to griefing, players can experience a range of unpleasant behaviors in online games. However, communities are starting to take action to create safe spaces for players. In this article, we’ll explore how gaming communities are tackling toxicity and making online gaming more enjoyable for everyone.

What is toxicity in gaming?

Toxicity in gaming refers to any negative behavior that makes the game less enjoyable for others. Some common examples include:

• Verbal abuse: Using offensive language, making personal attacks, or engaging in hate speech
• Griefing: Intentionally ruining the game for others, such as by team killing or purposefully losing
• Cheating: Using hacks or exploits to gain an unfair advantage over other players
• Bullying: Targeting specific players with negative behavior, such as through repeated name-calling or harassment

Why is toxicity a problem?

Toxic behavior can have a significant impact on players’ experiences in games. It can make people feel unwelcome, threatened, or scared. It can ruin the game’s atmosphere and make it less enjoyable for everyone involved.

Furthermore, toxic behavior can also have long-term effects. Players who experience toxicity may be less likely to continue playing the game or may become mistrustful of other players. This can lead to a decline in the game’s community and popularity.

How are gaming communities tackling toxicity?

There are several ways that gaming communities are working to address toxicity and create safer spaces for players. Here are some examples:

Moderation

Many games now have dedicated moderators or community managers who are responsible for keeping the game’s community safe and enjoyable. These individuals monitor player behavior, enforce the game’s rules, and address any instances of toxicity that they encounter.

Reporting systems

Most games now have a reporting system that allows players to flag instances of toxicity or inappropriate behavior. These reports are then reviewed by moderators or automated systems, and appropriate action is taken if necessary (e.g. warnings, bans).

Rewards for positive behavior

Some games are now offering rewards or incentives to players who exhibit positive behavior, such as by helping others or being a good team player. This can encourage players to be kind and supportive towards others, rather than engaging in toxic behavior.

Community guidelines

Many gaming communities now have explicit guidelines or codes of conduct that outline expected behavior for players. These guidelines often prohibit toxic behavior and provide a clear path for reporting and addressing instances of toxicity.

Case study: Overwatch

One game that has made significant strides in tackling toxicity is Overwatch, a popular first-person shooter developed by Blizzard Entertainment. Here are some examples of how Overwatch has sought to create a more positive and welcoming gaming community:

‘Play nice, play fair’

Overwatch’s code of conduct explicitly states that players should “play nice, play fair”. This message is reinforced throughout the game, with positive messages displayed on loading screens and in the game’s chat system.

Positive reinforcement

Overwatch offers a ‘commendation’ system that allows players to recognize others for positive behavior. Players can commend others for being a good teammate, exhibiting leadership skills, or simply being friendly.

Reporting and penalty system

Overwatch has a comprehensive reporting and penalty system that allows players to report others for toxic behavior. The system uses a combination of manual and automated reviews to determine appropriate penalties for reported behavior, such as warnings or temporary bans.

Toxicity reduction efforts

Finally, Overwatch has made a concerted effort to reduce toxicity within the game. This has included implementing new features such as a ‘role queue’ that encourages players to work together, as well as making changes to the game’s balance to reduce frustration and anger among players.

Conclusion

While toxicity in gaming remains a problem, gaming communities are actively working to address it. Through efforts such as moderation, reporting systems, and positive reinforcement, players can feel safer and more welcome in online gaming. Games like Overwatch demonstrate that through a concerted effort, it’s possible to create a more positive and enjoyable online gaming experience for everyone.