The Dangerous Intersection of Gaming and Radicalisation in Young Men

Date: Monday 24 Mar 2025

In an article by Keith Stuart, an author and journalist who writes about video games, technology, and digital culture, he explores the relationship between video games and the radicalisation of young men, highlighting how toxic masculinity permeates gaming communities. It delves into the pressures and isolation young men face today, emphasising the need for structural changes within the industry and society to protect vulnerable individuals from online hate while recognising the positive aspects of gaming communities.

In recent times, a spotlight has been cast on young men and the concept of toxic masculinity, especially through compelling narratives like Netflix's Adolescence, which chronicles a boy's radicalisation. This drama showcases the gripping story and the performance of Owen Cooper, emphasising the importance of discussing the influences young males face today. Former England football manager Gareth Southgate recently addressed the lack of moral mentorship for boys, highlighting how gaming and gambling often drive them into isolated, problematic online communities rife with misogyny and racism.

"A friend of mine, once the media-visible executive producer of a major game series, was forced to accept a police escort for him and his family for several days after fans of the game disagreed with several new features of the latest instalment." Keith Stewart

The troubling connection between gaming culture and radicalisation isn’t new. The GamerGate controversy in 2014 illustrated how right-wing extremists manipulated gaming spaces to target and harass vulnerable communities, asserting dominance over women and LGBTQI+ individuals in the field. This created a toxic climate, spawning numerous threats and acts of online aggression towards those who dared to promote inclusivity and progressive values in gaming.

Toxicity still pervades the gaming world, with developers facing relentless abuse for advancing diversity in their narrative designs. Reports have surfaced of game creators being advised to refrain from publicly acknowledging their work to avoid backlash, particularly after the announcement of a black samurai character in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Such events spotlight the longstanding resistance within the gaming community against the essential notions of diversity and inclusion.

"It is important to recognise the hugely positive roles that online communities can play in the lives of teenagers. As the father of an autistic teen, I have seen my son flourishing through contact with other players in games such as Minecraft and Warframe." Keith Stewart

While condemning the negativity vibrant in some gaming circles, it’s crucial to recognise the positivity of other online communities, which can provide vital support for teenagers. As a parent of an autistic teen, Keith Stewart has witnessed how games can cultivate friendships and confidence, such as when his son engages with peers in games like Minecraft. We mustn’t allow sweeping generalisations to dictate the narrative about gaming, as not all experiences are harmful or detrimental.

Addressing the complexities of this issue requires recognising that many young men today are facing a crisis of identity, purpose, and direction. Traditional pathways are vanishing, and societal expectations are evolving, leaving many feeling lost. Influencers adeptly capitalise on this sense of disillusionment, directing frustrations towards easily targeted groups, including women and progressive gaming initiatives.

"What can be done? Of course, the games industry has a responsibility – just like social media companies do – to monitor its communities and make them safe. But in the long term, the problem of abusive, antisocial young men won’t go away until we get to the source." Keith Stewart

With a career spent advocating for the value of video games, Keith Stewart acknowledges the industry’s responsibility in promoting a healthier environment. Implementing stronger online moderation and utilising technology to filter harmful language is vital. However, the solution cannot solely rest on industry practices; societal discussions must evolve to encompass the nuances of the challenges young men face today. The future of gaming culture depends on these critical conversations and the collective effort to reshape the environment for upcoming generations.

Read his full article here: https://www.theguardian.com/games/2025/mar/24/video-games-cant-escape-their-role-in-the-radicalisation-of-young-men