For All the Clash of Clans Players
Hello everyone.
I think there's something we need to address right now before it goes any further. I'm sure that many of you have experienced this in the game, and it's something no one wants to have.
The topic is this: Bullying other players due to trophy count, Town Hall level, troop level, etc. Basically, bullying other players based on their status in the game.
I myself have been a victim of this type of bullying, and I have seen hundreds of others who have also fallen victim to this. I think it's time we addressed this as a legitimate issue here on the forums.
First of all, what are levels and trophy counts? They're just variables: the building blocks of any good game. Variables change all of the time and for different reasons. It's all part of the programming of the game. Are we really going to bully someone because their variables aren't as high as ours? We all know that everyone goes through all levels and trophies, so what would be the reason behind making fun of someone who is just going through the process of the game?
Secondly, how can you bully someone based on the way they play the game? There are very few games created that have a perfectly linear way of playing the game. Modern programming allows the users to play the game any way they want, up to certain points. Why would you bully a person for the way they're playing the game? There are many players who have a notion of "normal" playing. But everyone plays differently, so "normal" cannot and does not exist. You can't put yourself in a position of being better than someone just because you play in a way that you feel is "more normal".
Third, who are you playing against? I have heard many people who have refused to help the people being bullied because "it's just a game". So, what does that mean? "It's just a game"... so we can do anything we want and say anything we want to anyone? The forum rules don't say that! And may I remind you that when you open the Global chat, it tells you that "Offensive behavior is NOT tolerated"? "It's just a game"... so you're playing against robots who don't have feelings? Playing a video game doesn't mean that everyone can dismiss whatever you say to them. You are playing against real people, with real lives and real feelings. "It's just a game"... so you aren't actually responsible for what you say and do? Responsibility doesn't go away on the internet just because your identity does. Everything you say and do impacts the people who are also with you on the internet. In fact, the internet requires MORE responsibility, because you are interacting with many more people than you could without the internet.
So, what should we do about this? Simple: the next time you feel the need to push someone down based on where they are in the game, don't do it! Everyone plays the game at a different pace and in a different way. Remember that you started the game the same way as everyone else: Level 1, Town Hall 1, Archers and Barbarians Level 1. There should be no difference in the way you treat someone based on how high their level or trophies are. You should treat everyone on this game with respect and kindness. If you see anyone getting bullied, make sure you stand up for them and tell the bully to leave. If needed, use that Report option; the programmers put it there for a reason!
Remember the Golden Rule: Treat others as you'd like to be treated.
Thanks and good luck with the clashing!
AK712
