Former Pro Gamer Sparks Controversy with Arc Raiders Griefing: “If You Want Optional PvP, Play WoW”
The PvP aspect of the multiplayer extraction shooter Arc Raiders has sparked quite a debate since its release. Some players believe that the ability to engage in combat with others is essential for creating tension and enhancing the overall experience. Others feel that this goes against the spirit of a game where a few brave souls are trying to gather resources for those living underground. Regardless, the Arc Raiders community has developed an intriguing and delicate balance where most players choose not to engage in killing. So, when a retired pro gamer swoops in and starts taking out everyone in sight, it’s just plain inconsiderate!
Recently, Taylor “THump” Humphries, a former pro known for titles like Apex Legends and H1Z1, has taken to hunting down casual players in Embark’s popular game. During his Twitch streams, THump has been showcasing his antics, seemingly for his own amusement. His latest marathon stream lasted a grueling 13 hours, primarily featuring him eliminating other players in a game where most opt for a more peaceful approach.
THump’s streams have become the gaming equivalent of trolling. His commentary drips with irony as he laughs at the misfortune of others. Personally, I find it hard to see the humor in that. Yet, it seems to be entertaining enough for him to continue this nightly routine, recently reveling in tossing grenades at unsuspecting players.
Logging in with a full stock of trigger grenades and wiping out everyone trying to regroup after an expedition seems to bring him joy. He insists that trigger grenades don’t need a nerf!
A few days ago, a post on social media stirred up quite a reaction when THump shared a clip of him taking out a party of four right at the start of a run, before they even had a chance to loot. One of his victims lamented, “We just started, I have nothing,” followed by, “What scum, man,” after he eliminated another player.
Given THump’s trolling nature, his responses to critics—like claiming, “I come from a place where PvP is not optional…it’s a way of life. You want optional PvP, go play something else”—are clearly tongue-in-cheek. When someone labeled him as “another toxic streamer” and suggested he might enjoy helping others instead of hunting them down, he quipped, “I’d rather ruin others’ time than have fun myself.”
However, he’s not technically doing anything wrong. While his claims of innocence—asserting he’s just playing a PvP game—are dubious, it’s undeniable that Arc Raiders allows for this kind of play. As cringeworthy as it is to watch someone seek clout in this manner, it’s comforting to know that his behavior stands out in a community where, 90 percent of the time, players choose not to kill, even when it could benefit them. In 2025, that feels like a glimmer of hope, and THump’s antics only serve to highlight the value of that choice.
