Topic: Blizzard forums to show your real name

[idolminds]

I don't think this is going to turn out the way they hope.

The official forums have always been a great place to discuss the latest info on our games, offer ideas and suggestions, and share experiences with other players -- however, the forums have also earned a reputation as a place where flame wars, trolling, and other unpleasantness run wild. Removing the veil of anonymity typical to online dialogue will contribute to a more positive forum environment, promote constructive conversations, and connect the Blizzard community in ways they haven't been connected before. With this change, you'll see blue posters (i.e. Blizzard employees) posting by their real first and last names on our forums as well.

Note this will not change things that have already been posted (ie, its not retroactive). But the new Starcraft 2 forums, WoW forums when Cataclysm comes, and probably everything going forward will be using your real name when you post.

[Pugnate]

bah.

[MysterD]

Why? 
Blizzard's forums ain't Facebook.

[Xessive]

I can see their reasoning but I don't see how this would affect most forum users or necessarily prevent "flame wars." Maybe it's the supposed loss of anonymity.

I, for one, couldn't care less whether my real name is on display or not. When I post I generally do so willfully and knowing full well that I am responsible for my post.

I can see it being a problem for people who especially picky about their privacy and people who only wish to be known by their aliases (or people who really like to roleplay as their online forum alter-ego).

[iPPi]

[idolminds]

Awesome.

[MysterD]

LOL @ that comic.

[MysterD]

Blizzards makes Real ID optional.