In 2021, the children's game platform
Roblox introduced a proximity chat feature for verified users over the age of 13. This feature prompted complaints by privacy advocates, since verification involves submitting a selfie and government issued ID to the company, which has a prior history of
data leaks. Users have also expressed skepticism that the verification system has properly excluded younger users. Users and the parents of users have also complained, as inappropriate content such as slurs, sexual content, and illegal conduct such as drug deals have been documented as being audible on the platform. Other video games use this method to encourage teamplay or to enhance atmosphere and immersion. In the video game
Hell Let Loose, a World War II
FPS game, proximity chat is only allowed between friendly players as a means to emulate real-life combat before the widespread usage of squad-based radio communication. Other games like
Phasmophobia use a tighter proximity chat, where players become muffled if in the next room or down a hallway. This feature adds immersion to simulate the feelings of isolation and horror inherent in the game. There are also games which value cooperation between players, such as Peak which has a players and their friends climb mountains and other obstacles to reach the end of the game together. == See also ==