I think at the very best and most generous analysis the experienced and successful(ish) players on a competitive emulated raid server from 2000 know firsthand the wilderness of solitude. The level of competition for pixels here is or was such that it shaped oral history. One does not poop into a sock without a mandatory minimum of solitude: yes or no?
The huge influx in population within the last 6-9 months on Green (upon which I can't say I have any experience or knowledge leveling or anything) I think could well be seen as a recession indicator IRL. Gainfully employed people, even if they can't make friends outside of work, probably are less likely to raid pixels for hours in their off hours. And isolated people find solace and relief or at least a sense of it through various means.
I've made relationships through this game with real people who played this game. I've grown friend to and with people I have met IRL from what ultimately is this nerdy nerd server for nerds after some form or fashion. But even when I fought as part of a virtual raid guild I maintained and participated freely IRL in life's social circles and have been humbled and gratified with the objective, even written, feedback as positive and consistent.
I had no problems dropping raids and discord when I became fruitfully busy in concert with my flesh and blood friends and taking them into consideration above pixels because I had relationships and "game" to create and find them apart from work and family IRL.
Are people really being rustled over a press release and a YouTube video?
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