The Ad Council’s national Seize the Awkward suicide prevention campaign has joined up with Guild Wars 2 to raise awareness of how friends can help and support one another through hard times. Publishers NCSOFT and developer ArenaNet both have a good reputation for their inclusive and supportive online community and throughout February will be providing all 11 million players with a free Seize the Awkward t-shirt for their in-game character. A moving video can be seen below showcasing real life stories from Guild Wars 2 who have met and supported friends with their mental health through the game.
During February, players who visit the game’s gem store will be able to claim the special in-game t-shirt and equip it to their character and show others that they are always there for their friends when times are hard.
This year, the Guild Wars 2 develoeprs are inviting players to share their personal stories of helping one another via the hashtags #SeizetheAwkward and #GW2Friendships. Those who do will have the opportunity to have their own Guild Wars 2 character put into the game as an NPC where they will roam Tyria forever.
“We couldn’t be more excited to introduce a new audience to Seize the Awkward through a captivating, in-game feature where we believe users will be receptive to our message,” said Heidi Arthur, Chief Campaign Development Officer at the Ad Council. “Whether online or face-to-face, the important thing is to trust your gut and reach out to a friend who might be struggling. This effort will continue to encourage young adults to start these critical and potentially life-saving conversations.”
“Guild Wars 2’s players are renowned for their welcoming and supportive attitude and embracing the message of Seize the Awkward is a great opportunity to emphasize how necessary that type of support can be during hard times,” said Dr. Songyee Yoon, CEO of NCSOFT West. “Creating a strong community and an inviting place to play is a core pillar to all our games, and we’re very honored to partner with the Ad Council to highlight the way meaningful connections can be made through video games.”
https://youtu.be/y79x7u6eZuU
Suicide is something that we can all help prevent just by doing something as simple as being their for our friends during periods where they are experiencing hard times.
