While most of gaming is literally fun and games, sometimes the gaming community, even classic gaming communities, have to address more serious notes. Usually it is a controversy over gaming content, such as sex or violence. But in light of recent events in Arizona, real life violence has been brought to the center stage.

Jared Lee Loughner, accused of the shooting rampage that left six people dead and several more wounded, was part of a close-knit community of gamers who played the online MMORPG, Earth Empires. He was a daily player and frequented the chat rooms and forums associated with the game. Many members of this game’s community have found themselves defending the game, as others are trying to lay the blame for this tragedy anywhere they may.

According to the game’s official site, the game is “a free browser based strategy game where you take control of your nation’s military and economy. Command your country’s military to attack and defend against your enemies. Execute attack strategies to relieve opponents of their resources and land. Strategically invest in technology to outpace the economies of other countries. Ally with your friends or make new friendships by joining a clan. Conduct military operations, govern your country and build your empire.” It is a continuation of the 1990s game Earth 2025.

Loughner’s friends claim that he began playing the game in the ninth grade, but gaming administrators say that his account had been inactive since June of 2010. However, many of his posts within the forums, both public and private, have led people to ponder more about his troubled mind. They were one of the many outlets for his ideas and ideals, as well as his many frustrations. At one point, he posted that the forum “made him feel better.” There are now fingers being pointed at the game, which encourages social alliances against authorities. People are also questioning if his posts within the forums should have been taken more seriously.

For more about these recent events, or to view video of Loughner’s gaming rants check here.

Accused shooter was an MMORPG addict, 5.0 out of 5 based on 6 ratings

This entry was posted on Wednesday, February 2nd, 2011 at 08:00 and is filed under Other Retrogames News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.