Bob, a respected member of the Channel Massive guild on World of Warcraft, wrote in to share a story of how he discovered a whole new kind of bigotry when he was “snubbed” at an activities group interview.  The M-Team will officially comment on Bob’s email in Episode 57; however, we felt that it was a story that deserved to be read in its entirety in a forum setting so you folks could respond with your own brand of anger and empathy.  So, without further ado:

Good day Channel Massive!

I’m recently divorced. In an effort to become more active and allow for the chance to meet more single women, I looked into joining “Events and Activities,” a club for single people to do stuff like rock climbing, white water rafting, and attending wine tastings, cultural events, festivities, etc. They advertise that they are nota dating club, but from attending functions with folks who have similar interests, it’s probable that I could meet someone I am compatible with. The web sight has limited info and a number to call.  So, I called them and asked how much the club costs. They told me they have a “one-time fee” that will be discussed at my interview. I asked again how much it is and they politely told me that the fee would be discussed at my appointment (once they’ve made sure I’m not an ax murderer and that I’m a good fit for their group). I made an appointment.

So, I went to the appointment, filled out a questionnaire, and was interviewed by a lady about my age – maybe a year or two older. You know the type: a beautiful, successful, business-type woman – stylishly dressed, with no ring on her finger, and a picture of her child on her desk. You know the type: she can’t wait for the close of business so she can get together with her posse of other single professional women all dying for their 6 pm wine/margarita/fruity-chick-drink and the chance to bemoan where are all the good men that love to take long walks on the beaches at sunset after attending expressionistic art extravaganzas – bitches! I digress.

She asked about hobbies and among my list I told her that I play “World of Warcraft” and love it a lot. She frowned slightly, but quickly recovered to an open and inviting smile. She went over the questionnaire taking particular interest on how much money I spend for entertainment on a weekly basis.  Then, she mentioned that the club has monthly dues.

I said, “Whoah! Your rep on the phone said that there was only a one-time fee.”

“Yes, we have a one-time fee for a 1-year, 2-year, or 3-year enrollment, and we also have monthly dues of $30,” she replied.

Hearing this, I told her, “Thanks for your time but I think we can stop right now, as I specifically asked if there was a monthly fee on the phone and your rep said no it was a one-time fee to be discussed now at my interview. Sorry to waste your time, but I’m not going to pay a one-time fee, plus a $30 per month in dues, and then spend more on each and every event that I attend.”

She responded, “Well, according to you, you spend hundreds of dollars a year to play video games. You can afford it.”

I said, “Yeah, I could, but 1.) my game costs only $12 per month; and 2.) it seems your initial fee is a pretty steep when I could just look up events and attend them on my own without spending a thing, not to mention that each event has it’s own variable costs.

She tried to convince me that her service really is worth the money and that it’s much better than wasting time and money on video games.  To which, I replied that it is a form of socialization.

“You’re sitting in front of a computer playing video games!” she exclaimed with a look of disdain.

I argued, “Yes, with other people all over the country sitting in front of their computers, and some of these people I actually meet in real life. My friends and coworkers play these same games. Sometimes we log on and play together for fun. You know, you act like playing video games makes me out to be some type of closet drug user.”

“Yes! You are!” she shouted.

A few moments of silence passed, as I locked stares with her. “I don’t think I’m a good fit in your social group, thanks anyway and have a good day,” I said as got up and I walked out.

Have any of you ever been in a situation like that? Ostracized over your gaming hobby? It really pissed me off; but in the end, I saved myself $500 per year or so, and she lost a sale.