How to Handle Toxicity in Games

Although games are purposefully made to give us, gamers, the chance to relax, unwind, and have fun, sometimes we just get the absolute opposite of that. Toxicity in games has since become a serious problem, especially now with the emergence of online gaming. 

Sometimes when gaming, more so in competitive play such as Dota 2 or CS:GO, players just get so emotionally unhinged that they express toxic behavior. Perhaps they are on a losing end or a part of the game itself frustrates them to the point of getting them angry. Nevertheless, toxicity in games ruins the experience for everyone involved, even the ones getting frustrated. In the worst cases, it can even lead to real-world harm.

While it is indeed inevitable to get frustrated at times when gaming, the good news is that there are things you can do to handle toxicity in games. Both on yourself and others. Read on as we share just that.

Tips on How to Handle Toxicity in Games

We understand that each of us may have our own way of handling our personal emotions and others’. Well, here are a few tips from us:

• Games are just that, games. No matter how dedicated you are to what you are playing, it shouldn’t be something to get so angry about. Yes, it’s hard not to be, but just do your best. Sometimes, a toxic player may just be having a bad day, so do not take their harsh words personally. On the other hand, refrain from playing competitive games too when you are the one having a tough day.

• Do not engage the toxic player. Just ignore him or her. Toxicity in games only worsens when the offending party gets a response of any kind. We get that you have to defend yourself when someone is being offensive toward you, but it will only lead to more conflict. For such instances, the best tactic is to just ignore them. Let them run their mouth in absolute silence. Chances are they’d grow tired of themselves and just stop or quit.

• Mute, block, or report the player expressing toxic behavior. This is perhaps the easiest way to handle toxicity in games. As soon as you hear someone shouting obscenities or see someone expressing bad behavior in your games, do not hesitate to outright block them. Not only will it help you ignore them more easily, but it can also lead to the particular player getting banned, which will protect other players from their toxicity as well.

• Remember to take breaks. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by toxicity, take a break from the game. Go for a walk, watch a movie, or do something else that you enjoy. Coming back to the game later will help you to relax and enjoy it more.

Why Are Players Toxic in Games

There are many reasons why players are toxic in games. Some of the most common reasons include:

1. They are too competitive, it is now bad. Gamers are innately competitive but some just take it too far. Such people get frustrated by such minute things, perhaps a silly mistake by their allies or even themselves. Overly-competitive people tend to be more likely to lash out at others.
   
2. They feel invincible just because they are anonymous. When players are anonymous, they feel like they can say anything without fear of repercussions. This can lead to them being more aggressive and toxic in their behavior.
   
3. They are griefers. Griefing is a type of toxic behavior where players intentionally try to ruin the experience for others. This can be done by feeding the enemy team, trolling, or spamming chat. As sad as it is to hear, there are just some people out there that feel satisfied with themselves when they ruin other people’s fun.

One thing is for certain, however, not all gamers are toxic. Toxicity in games may be most prevalent now more than ever but not everyone is out to ruin your game. It’s true that it’s best to always be prepared for someone to express toxic behavior when playing online, but don’t let it be a hindrance to your having fun. Just follow the few steps we showed you and you should be fine. But, of course, you shouldn’t be toxic yourself as well.