The Dark Side of Gaming

Jack Dart examines how far-right extremism has infiltrated the gaming world and what needs to be done to counter its pernicious influence on young people

Photo: Vlad Stenko/Alamy

I’ve been a gamer for 15 years, immersing myself in the worlds of Call of Duty, Halo, Grand Theft Auto, and countless other games. Gaming has always been more than just a hobby for me – it's a community, a competitive outlet, and a way to connect with others. Over the years, I’ve spent hours in online gaming lobbies, speaking with and listening to fellow players. But alongside the fun, I’ve witnessed a much darker side of the gaming world, which has grown more troubling with time.

For years, online gaming lobbies have been rife with offensive slurs and toxic behaviour. I’ve heard casual racist remarks, rampant LGBTQ+ bashing, and extreme misogyny – not just in Call of Duty, but in many popular games across the board. What was once an environment for competition and camaraderie has, in many corners, become a breeding ground for hate speech and harmful ideologies.

Beyond the immediate gaming sessions, I’ve followed streamers who, over the years, have shifted from purely gaming content to pushing more extreme, right-wing narratives. Popular streamers like Nickmercs, who built their following through their gaming prowess, are increasingly using their platforms to voice divisive political opinions. Streamers who once focused on gameplay are now blurring the lines between entertainment and political commentary, influencing young, impressionable audiences in the process.