Man Gets ‘Virtually Slapped’ 4,800 Times with Eggs & Sandals, Sues Gaming Firm in China
In the world of online gaming, it’s not uncommon for players to experience frustration and anger when they lose a match or encounter a difficult opponent. However, one Chinese man has taken his grievance to new heights, literally, by suing a gaming firm for “virtually slapping” him over 4,800 times in a multiplayer game.
The incident occurred in the popular Chinese game “Three Kingdoms Kill Online”, where players can interact with each other in real-time. According to the man, who wishes to remain anonymous, he was repeatedly “slapped” with virtual eggs and sandals by other players after he won matches. The game’s mechanics allow players to express their emotions by virtually slapping each other, but the frequency and intensity of the slaps in this case have led the man to claim that his self-esteem was severely damaged.
The “slaps” were not just a simple animation, but a full-fledged interaction that would leave the man feeling embarrassed and humiliated. Players would virtually slap him with eggs, sandals, and even toilet paper, causing him to feel a deep sense of shame and embarrassment. The man claimed that he was slapped over 4,800 times in just six months, which is a staggering number considering the frequency and duration of the game.
The man’s lawsuit against the game’s developer, Shanghai Youke Interactive, alleges that the repeated instances of virtual slapping caused him to develop depression and anxiety. He claims that the game’s mechanics are flawed and allow for excessive and abusive behavior, leading to a toxic gaming environment. The man is seeking compensation for his emotional distress and is demanding that the game be modified to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.
The case has sparked a heated debate in China about the responsibility of game developers in ensuring a safe and respectful gaming environment. Many gamers have taken to social media to share their own experiences of being “slapped” or ridiculed in online games, while others have defended the game’s mechanics, saying that it’s just a game and players should learn to handle their emotions better.
While the issue of virtual violence and harassment is not new, this case highlights the importance of game developers taking responsibility for creating a safe and respectful environment for their players. Games can be a powerful tool for social interaction and entertainment, but they can also have a profound impact on players’ mental health and well-being.
In recent years, there have been several high-profile cases of gamers being bullied or harassed online, leading to mental health issues and even suicide. The gaming industry has faced criticism for its lack of regulation and accountability, and this case serves as a reminder that game developers have a responsibility to prioritize their players’ well-being.
The Chinese government has also taken steps to regulate the gaming industry, introducing measures to curb addiction and promote responsible gaming practices. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism has launched a campaign to promote healthy gaming habits and has established guidelines for game developers to follow.
In the meantime, the man’s lawsuit against Shanghai Youke Interactive remains ongoing, and the outcome is likely to have significant implications for the gaming industry in China. As the case highlights the need for game developers to take responsibility for their players’ well-being, it also raises important questions about the limits of virtual violence and harassment in online games.
