Winter of Game 23

Hard to believe it's already been 7 years since the first Winter of Game. We started as a tiny niche event that everyone said would fail, then became a cult sensation, then became a worldwide phenomenon.

This winter, WxG carries the fire for mental health. The American rate of suicide in adults has climbed astronomically over the last decade, with an even higher incidence among gamers. Remember that if you're becoming frustrated or depressed while gaming, it's okay to step away. And if you see another gamer struggling, instead of trolling them, try asking them how they're doing.

In video games, we love to "rocket jump", "conc jump", "deny lasthits", and all sorts of fun acts of self-harm. But IRL, there's no advantage to be had. If someone you game with is joking about hurting themselves, call the National Suicide Prevention Line at 1-800-273-8255, or 911.

Sincere thanks to everyone who bundles up every winter to stoke their rig and vanquish their enemies -- those on the other end of the arena, and those in their own minds.