We all know that the Internet is anonymous. Anyone can assume any identity they choose. I, however, choose to let everyone know who I am for real. But of course there are those who prefer to think otherwise, and for that matter, act like the complete opposite of who they are.

It’s made even more obvious when it comes to Xbox Live. Since most people hide only behind an anonymous voice, made even more anonymous with filters, they can make a jerk of themselves, and detract more from their true identity. After all, look at all those who abuse and harass others who are just trying to enjoy a good matchup. I’m sure some of my GamerchiX friends can vouch for that.

Until recently I never had that issue with Live. I do admit though I rarely use my headset while playing unless it’s with people I know. But something this week is causing me to get another form of harassment. Not negative harassment, mind you, but it can still be frustrating.

Xbox launched their Game Room service, allowing players like myself to download classic arcade, Atari 2600, and Mattel Intellivision games to place into a virtual arcade. From that arcade, fellow Xbox Live gamers and friends can visit my arcade and play my games. It doesn’t seem like a service that would cause me to be harassed, but it has.

And the reason behind the harassment: my gamer pic. I don’t use my real face, as I do not own an Xbox Live Vision cam. My gamer pic is actually that of James Rolfe, aka the Angry Video Game Nerd. A few years ago I came across a ScrewAttack themed gamer pic collection. One of the pictures was of the AVGN, and since I am a fan of his work, I decided to use it for my own. Occasionally I get a message from Xbox Live members asking if I’m the real AVGN, which I quickly deny and state that I am just a fan of his work.

But with Game Room, the messages are now more frequent. I’m guessing it’s from everyone who has visited by my arcade, thinking they are playing with the real Nerd. They should realize though, if I was as popular as James, would I actually be using a likeness based on the character that made him popular? No, I’d be using another alias.

The biggest problem I have with the messages is that they are also turning into friend requests. Normally I wouldn’t have any issues getting friend requests, but until the next system update (hopefully,) I am still a slave to the 100 friend cap. When that is resolved, it will no longer become an issue, and I will be happy to add them to my list.

But in the meantime, I’ve already took measures to prove that I’m not the real AVGN. I placed a disclaimer on my profile, and my motto states that I’m not him. But maybe I should take it further. Maybe I should get my gamer pic changed.
Maybe I should check about making a GiN or GamerGeeks gamer pic to get everyone’s attention?

Currently Playing: Game Room (360,) Perfect Dark HD (360,) Aliens vs. Predator (360)

Waiting For: Super SF IV (360)