Happy Tuesday Video Game Law Class!
I thought I would share this picture from the Modern Warfare 2 Beta as the full game is set to release this Thursday at 9PM. In one of the first classes we were discussing how multiplayer games can be an arena for abusive language and bullying. Call of Duty has a notorious reputation for being plagued with such issues in its multiplayer. I find it interesting that this Code of Conduct was introduced by Activision/Blizzard, perhaps as a way to combat, or at least discuss the issue.
Before gaining access to the game this code would have to be agreed to by players. As per the code, the player agrees to: (a) treat everyone with respect; (b) compete with integrity; and (c) stay vigilant. I’m curious how this Code will mesh with the reporting system in the game. Personally, I don’t see it doing much, but at the least, it signals that the company is live to these issues.
Thoughts?
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Difficult to know if it would make a difference. After all, citing confidentiality reasons, the company cannot provide updates or actions taken as a result of reporting an “abusive” user. Anecdotally, there has been backlash regarding users getting banned for hurting another gamer’s feelings, what many feel falls short of abuse. Without any disclosure of what actions were taken to resolve specific complaints, it is hard to deduce whether the company applied the criteria below:
(excerpt from the site regarding policy on respect)
“1: TREAT EVERYONE WITH RESPECT
We do not tolerate bullying or harassment, including derogatory comments based on race, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, culture, faith, mental or physical abilities, or country of origin.
All members of our community should be treated with dignity and respect.
Communication with others, whether using text or voice chat, must be free of offensive or harmful language. Hate speech and discriminatory language is offensive and unacceptable, as is harassment and threatening another player.”
I am actually conducting my research on hate speech laws in the context of video gaming so would be happy to here any of the classes’ additional thoughts, both anecdotal and analytical.
I just came across this article about a Call of Duty player who literally showed up at Activision Blizzard’s office to inquire about his ban from the game. Not sure if it pertains to the code of conduct specifically, but thought it was a bit goofy.
It can be found here: https://www.gamespot.com/articles/call-of-duty-player-showed-up-at-activision-blizzards-office-over-modern-warfare-ii-ban/1100-6508847/.
(Sorry, also, I have no clue how to actually paste a hyperlink here).