Official Statement on r/BanVideoGames
I recently came across content from r/BanVideoGames, including its rules and recurring claims that the community is completely serious and not satire.
After examining the subreddit's content, rules, and posting style, I conclude that the evidence overwhelmingly indicates that r/BanVideoGames is a satirical community.
One example is the rule that lists the following as "offensive slurs":
- "K*ren (n-word for women)"
- "b**mer (n-word for the elderly)"
- "ret*rded (n-word for the mentally/physically challenged)"
- "g*mer (n-word for nazis)"
Fact-checking these claims reveals that they are not recognised definitions in linguistics, sociology, history, civil rights research, anti-discrimination law, or mainstream dictionaries.
"Karen" is a slang term typically used to describe a particular stereotype of entitled behaviour. It is not recognised as an equivalent to the N-word.
"Boomer" is an informal term referring to members of the Baby Boomer generation. While it can be used in a derogatory manner, it is not considered an equivalent to the N-word.
"Retarded" has historically been used as a medical and developmental term, but later became widely recognised as offensive when used as an insult toward people with disabilities. However, it is not generally classified as an equivalent to the N-word.
Most notably, "gamer" is a term describing a person who plays video games. It is not a recognised slur, nor is it a term synonymous with Nazis. The claim that "g*mer" is the "n-word for Nazis" is clearly an example of the exaggerated and absurd humour for which the subreddit is known.
The subreddit's repeated insistence that it is completely serious does not outweigh the overwhelming evidence of satire. In fact, remaining in character and refusing to acknowledge the joke is itself a common technique used in satirical communities.
Therefore, I reject the claim that these definitions are factual. They are best understood as part of the subreddit's parody, role-playing, and absurdist humour.
This statement is issued as an evidence-based assessment by an independent observer of internet culture.
— Milan Jhudiel Placencia