CCP launches investigation after Eve Online FanFest panel accused of mocking suicidal player
"We expect public presentations to be courteous and professional towards others."
CCP has launched an investigation after an Eve Online panel at its FanFest convention was accused of mocking a suicidal player.
Eve Online player Kestrel wrote to CCP and Eurogamer today to complain about Thursday's Alliance Panel presentation.
The presentation, delivered by one of the CSM council members and moderated by a CCP employee, featured an in-game communication between two Eve Online players where, according to Kestrel, one of the players clearly indicated suicidal thoughts and showed "obvious" signs of severe depression.
"When this communication was shown to the audience the presenter, along with part of the audience of players and CCP representatives present all had a good laugh," Kestrel said. "The presenter went on to encourage other players of Eve Online to harass this player in the hope that he would eventually be compelled to act on his suicidal thoughts.
"This player's in-game contact information was provided. I found this section of the presentation to be in extremely poor taste."
The panel was broadcast online as part of the streaming of the popular FanFest event, which showcased Eve Online, Dust 514 and World of Darkness.
In response, CCP issued a statement criticising the "abhorrent behaviour" that occurred. It is reproduced in full below.
"I want to reassure you that CCP in no way condones the harassment of players, especially those who suffer from depression or suicidal thoughts, as we understand the possible consequences of such abhorrent behaviour," CCP public relations and social media specialist Ned Coker said.
"Our Terms of Service (TOS), which can be found here, mirror our company's stance on this matter.
"While the content of online interactions between players cannot realistically be gated within our game worlds, we do take very seriously accusations of such behaviour between our players.
"Furthermore, we have a suicide hotline protocol which has, in specific cases, made a difference for several unfortunately troubled players. We appreciate you voicing your concerns on this level, and CCP will be very vigilant in monitoring any behaviour directed towards the individual named in the presentation.
"We are undertaking a full internal review of this panel as well as the process used for vetting the panel's materials. Even though this panel was billed as unfiltered by CCP, we expect public presentations to be courteous and professional towards others."