Blizzard Entertainment, the games developer, decides to nix proposals that would have required players to use their real names when posting on the company's forums. The proposed move, which was met with negative response among subscribers, stems from the company's aim to make their forums "a better place for players to discuss our games."

The developer says that its forums had "earned a reputation as a place where flame wars, trolling and other unpleasantness run wild." The proposal was meant to counter the prevailing online culture. "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."

The proposals have caused users worry about privacy. As a result, a number of dissatisfied forum members went further than simply voicing their disapproval. Since news of the proposed move came out, a significant number of users have cancelled their subscriptions to World of Warcraft. Some subscribers have even protested by posting the personal information of some Blizzard employees online.