Gabe Newell Says He Was Trolled at His Own Game
Gabe Newell is one of the most recognizable figures in the gaming world. As the co-founder of Valve and the face of Steam, Newell is known for his warm communication with fans and his relaxed response to jokes directed at him. However, it seems this relaxed nature also reflects the harsh comments he receives in online games. Newell, who said he was trolled while playing Dota 2, stated that he viewed this as a reflection of players’ passion, not a negative one.
Gabe Newell Confirms He Was Trolled in Dota 2
Speaking at the opening of Dota 2’s The International tournament, which kicked off on September 11, 2025, Newell spoke about his love for both the game and the community. However, he admitted to occasionally encountering harsh comments from players during the chat. “In the game,” Newell said, “they’ll tell me things like ‘you’re a noob,’ ‘die,’ or even ‘delete and never reinstall.'” He stated that this doesn’t upset him, emphasizing that these outbursts are a testament to players’ dedication to the game.
Newell also said he plays Dota 2 every day. The Valve president noted that the game eventually became a part of his daily routine, adding that the energy of the community is the most important factor that keeps him playing. This attitude aligns with the humorous personality his fans have known for years.
Newell, who doesn’t mind in-game trolls, continues to strengthen his connection with the gaming community. He’s also treated jokes made by fans at various events with the same maturity, and this attitude is seen as “one among the gamers.” This demonstrates his continued connection to the community despite being Valve’s boss.
Newell doesn’t just play games. He’s previously stated that he works seven days a week and enjoys sports and diving in his spare time. Despite his involvement with Steam, artificial intelligence projects, and scientific endeavors, his continued commitment to Dota 2 demonstrates his love of gaming.
