We Need to Talk About Toxicity in League of Legends
Over the past few weeks and months, Riot’s efforts to combat toxicity in League of Legends have been making headlines. Players like VideoGameDunkey have faced the consequences of their actions, with Riot stripping them of their ranked rewards. But what does it really mean to be toxic? How severe are the offenses committed in the game? And how does Riot prevent toxicity? In this article, we’ll delve into these questions and more.
Riot’s Efforts to Combat Toxicity
Riot has implemented various measures to address toxic behavior. The first is chat restrictions, imposed on individuals who have been repeatedly reported by other players. These restrictions can last for tens or even thousands of games. The next level of punishment is a week-long or 14-day ban from the game, preventing players from logging in. The most severe consequence is a permaban. But what exactly constitutes toxic behavior according to Riot?
The Subjectivity of Toxicity
Defining toxicity is a challenge, as it is subjective. What one player finds toxic, another may not. Toxic behavior can range from mild criticism to offensive and hateful language. Each player’s tolerance level differs, making it difficult to determine appropriate punishments. Should someone who types “GG easy” be treated the same as someone who uses racist slurs? The current reporting system lacks the ability to filter biases, further complicating matters.
Other Issues Plaguing the Game
While Riot focuses on combating toxicity, other problems in the game go unchecked. Issues such as scripting, DDoSing, boosting, intentional feeding, and trolling are more prevalent. Scripters pose a direct threat to the game’s integrity, yet Riot’s efforts don’t seem dedicated to addressing these issues.
The Role of Trash Talk and Game Rating
Trash talk is a natural part of competitive gaming, seen in other sports as well. Expecting League of Legends to be completely sterile disregards the game’s core elements of violence and conflict. Additionally, the game is rated 15+ by the ESRB, acknowledging its mature content. Players have the option to mute others if they find their comments offensive, adding to the debate surrounding toxicity.
Misplaced Priorities: Sandbox Mode and Voice Chat
Surprisingly, Riot claims that toxicity is the reason behind the lack of a sandbox mode and in-game voice chat. The argument is that players would flame others for underperforming in a sandbox mode. However, sandbox mode would provide significant benefits and could enhance the game experience. It’s more likely that the game’s engine limitations prevent these additions.
Voice chat, on the other hand, could improve the competitive aspect of ranked games and foster new friendships between players. Implementing voice chat wouldn’t force anyone to participate, and players can still mute others if needed. Riot’s emphasis on toxicity as a reason for not implementing these features seems questionable.
Riot’s Flawed Approach to Toxicity
Riot’s strategy of trying to permanently change toxic players is ultimately unrealistic. People’s nature can’t be altered completely. However, Riot could take steps to account for toxic players without hindering the implementation of requested features. Creating separate queues or improving the Tribunal system could provide a solution that addresses toxicity without sacrificing players’ desires.
In conclusion, toxicity remains a complex issue in League of Legends. While Riot’s efforts to combat it are commendable, there are other pressing problems that need attention. Striking a balance between addressing toxicity and accommodating player requests is crucial for the future of the game.
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