I’d like to present a viewpoint that might stir some debate, and while you might disagree, I feel compelled to express it:
It appears that certain top leaderboard players are engaging in behavior that could be interpreted as a form of cheating.
Before you jump to conclusions, let me clarify that I’m not suggesting they’re using actual cheats. However, they seem to be exploiting a situation that likely goes against the developers’ intentions (or so I assume, perhaps arrogantly).
Here’s the crux of the matter: I was watching a live stream by one of the top leaderboard players (I won’t name names to avoid any potential shaming). I noticed two glaring issues that struck me, both stemming from the same source: what seemed like a collaborative effort among some high-ranking players – win the matches and get more dark and darker gold rewards in the end.
Let me elaborate.
This streamer was part of a trio, running the Forgotten Castle and consistently defeating the Hell boss. Within the castle, they encountered another group. You’d expect an epic clash, right? Well, hold on.
Both groups intentionally avoided confrontation and, surprisingly, the streamer openly admitted that they were acquainted with the other group. They decided not to engage because the opposing trio was also led by a high-ranking leaderboard player. Essentially, both groups were avoiding each other to maximize their leaderboard progress. Based on comments in the stream chat, this appears to be a common occurrence in that streamer’s sessions.
During looting behind the boss, the streamer’s trio heard footsteps, recognizing them as the other group’s. They didn’t act cautiously since they knew who it was. It later came to light that the two groups were communicating via Discord. In fact, upon entering hell, they apparently coordinated who would get a portal via Discord. The streamer’s companion deviated from this agreement and took another player’s portal as a joke. Shortly afterward, the streamer disclosed that the other group’s leader messaged them, expressing a desire to retaliate against the companion’s action.
A Twitch chat debate ensued, with some viewers claiming that this wasn’t unfair since they weren’t “fighting together.” Technically, they weren’t teaming up, but it’s worth examining whether this claim holds water. While they weren’t battling side by side, there’s an indisputable advantage to be gained from not fighting each other. This approach conserves resources, reduces the risk of death, and enables both groups to clear the map more effectively.
While the streamer and their viewers argue that this isn’t unfair, I find it hard to believe that there isn’t a substantial advantage in not engaging each other. Claiming otherwise feels either naive or disingenuous, and I lean towards the latter.
Although they’re not explicitly teaming up, I believe this behavior is grossly unfair and bordering on cheating, especially in the context of leaderboard play. I’m also critical of top leaderboard Twitch streamers receiving gear back from viewers. While it might not violate terms of service, it does create an inherent advantage for streamers compared to non-streamers.
You’re free to disagree, but I’m unwavering in my stance. My intention was to raise awareness about a potential issue within the community.
On a closing note, a shoutout to TheSpudHunter (#1 ranger on OCEANIA). He consistently maintains high ethical standards by avoiding such behavior, rejecting freebies from viewers, and not reclaiming his gear. This is how I believe all top leaderboard streamers should conduct themselves.
To sum it up: Some top leaderboard Twitch streamers appear to form loose alliances by intentionally avoiding each other, communicating via Discord (though not collaborating directly), and occasionally receiving gear back from those who bested them. In my view, this straddles the line of cheating.
Welcome to the discussion – dynamicvoltagegames.com.