The Off-topic forum is the only place on GameSpot where games are not discussed. This is the place to be if you want to discuss everything outside games.

Rules are simple:
- Follow the Terms of Use and read the FAQ.
- Game and platform discussions NOT allowed.
- Keep the discussions work friendly. More details in the FAQ.
- Do NOT post or bump extremely abusive discussions.
- Hate speech not permitted.


Off-Topic is being renovated... again. Our Mission: To provide a place where members can mingle and discuss non-gaming topics casually in a work friendly environment.
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FAQ

Off-Topic Rules changed again? WTF!
The last time we changed the rules we declared that they would be changed at any time.

What exactly do you mean by "Not Safe for Work?" or "Work-friendly?"
Not safe for work means content generally inappropriate for the typical workplace. Content that would not be acceptable in the presence of your boss or colleagues at a corporation or organization. If you want a not-so-work-friendly destination Off-Topic After Hours was made for you

What exactly does GameSpot consider NSFW?
The following topics, posts, and content are considered NSFW and will be considered moderate able content:

*Risqué/Suggestive Images (underwear or swimwear models)
*Salacious Content in the form of links, or imagery.
*Grim and or Shocking Content.
*Posting links to sites with dubious content.

How do I properly report content that is not safe for work?
Use the "other" drop down and in the field available for text enter "NSFW".

What does respect others mean?
We expect others to be friendly to others in this forum. If you post a topic while being a jerk, we may not stop others from returning the favor. If you want to be blunt visit Off-Topic After Hours.

But I need some tips I don't think I know how to be respectful?
Well we didn't think we'd have to define what it means to "respect others" but apparently we do. So TO BE CLEAR:

*Refrain from mocking / antagonizing / or harassing users (If you can't say something nice, go to After Hours)
*Stay on topic
* Avoid being disruptive (Posting in all capital letters, or large images)

We will not hunt for these violations, the person who is being attacked will need to report it.

Does this mean I can no longer report people for calling me a troll in this forum?
We mostly moderate offensive, illegal, and advertising content.

Can I call people gay or retarded?
Not acceptable. According to the Terms of Use:

Terms of Use wrote:

Users may not transmit or encourage others to transmit material or links to material considered patently offensive in nature. This includes but is not limited to using race, religion, sexual orientation, culture, ethnicity, disability, nationality, or gender as a means of insult

This also extends to using either word as a synonym for "stupid" or something similar.

What happens if I post in an extremely abusive discussion?
By posting in a discussion created to account suicide (such as pornography or illegal activities or virus links) you are re-surfacing the content. Anyone who posts in such discussions should expect to have your permissions revoked.

What about sex talk?
Discussing sexual related content means that you have taken the responsibility of keeping the conversation from turning into something inappropriate. Want to talk about how sexy that gamer chick (you know... THAT one) gets you super hot under the collar? Have at it! Just be ready for the comments that follow. That is the risk you take. Posting content of very descriptive or visual content will get you moderated.

Too Hot to Post - Got the hots for a user?
Did a user in the latest "What do you look like" thread make you want to make love to your computer? Great. We do not want to hear about it. EVER! Do not post about your sexual desires or actions towards another user on the forum. Keep these intimate details private.

Hot Chick/Sexy Studs Threads not accepted in this forum.
We have a forum dedicated to Not-So-Work-Friendly discussions. Post it there, otherwise prepare to be moderated.

Religious and political discussions are no longer a big deal?
You are welcome to talk about your opinions in regards to various faiths, political agendas, or lack thereof. However the conversation must remain a discussion, baseless accusations and personal attacks will not be permitted.

Terms of Use wrote:
Continual harassing behavior directed towards a certain individual or group by another individual or group with the intent of creating an intimidating, offensive, or hostile environment on the Service, with or without use of explicit or implicit threats, is strictly prohibited. Posting contact or other private information of any person (Service user or not) is also prohibited.