I'm quite sad about Dean's banning. It is rare for a commenter to support a blog community to the extent that Dean has. That said, I do see why Brian was upset, as Dean choosing to post his comments (most of which I agree with [I like the breadth of subject matter]) in the particular article he chose effectively served as a rebuttal to what was partially a 'best of'. Also, the article serves as an introduction for new readers, so it's a bit like a high-school senior popping into a freshman literature class on the first day of school and passing out a flier outlining Mister Crecente's lack of skill as a teacher. His comments would have been more tastefully made in TAY or #speakup, and Brian is well aware of Dean's position on these issues. That said, I think Kotaku is strong enough to withstand reasoned, politely stated criticism, and hope and request that Dean will be reinstated.

#speakup

@buddhathing: I'm thinking Kotaku needs a new leader.

#speakup
@buddhathing: Dean didn't post that in the article, that was Trjns.

[kotaku.com]

#speakup
promoted by buddhathing
@buddhathing: Buddha? Where the bloody hell have YOU been, man?

#speakup
@OkayOctane: Oh, balls. It read like Dean, but then I've proven I can't read. Well what did Dean get the ax for? I reviewed his recent comment history, and I can't figure out what provoked it.

#speakup
@buddhathing: I've been with this site since 2007 and I've never seen such a huge backlash. I don't even want to know the specifics of what's going on.

*steps back into the shadows*

#speakup
@Manly McBeeferton: Playing Lego Harry Potter with my daughter. Then drinking... I mean celebrating Independence (after the kids' mother picked them up).

#speakup
@OkayOctane: what did Dean get banned for then? wow im shocked... what happens to disemvoweling and de-starring... a straight up ban?

what on earth can someone of his stature do to deserve that

#speakup
promoted by ex_nihilo
@buddhathing: Neither can anyone else. It seems damn random, and as out of the blue as they come.



#speakup
@buddhathing: Actually, he did write it. If you go to the replies, the comment that is disemvoweled says that Dean did write it, and the other guy just posted it. I think.

#speakup
promoted by buddhathing
@cyruss: Nobody seems to know and you can't even mention Dean's name without getting disemvowelled. It's disappointing that no one is allowed to have an opinion here anymore...or even mention someone's name without an official rebuke. Witz got destarred today, too. I expect this thread to become a flood of consonants soon. Good night, and good luck.

#speakup
@Kowl Slaw: That was the impression I was under when I threw in my .016 MS Points.

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@buddhathing: What exactly did he say? I always miss these things...

#speakup
@ex_nihilo: i had an opinion on here once and i lost my star, that was several months ago...

but yeh sad all the same - he was high profile, and did a lot to contribute - so its surprising.

#speakup
@buddhathing: I think you might have nailed it. I am new to commenting, but ready Kotaku more than I read my email... so it is kind of like the video-game blog equivalent of watching your parents fight.

Distressing. I hope things get back to normalcy soon and someone shuts off the neurotoxin emitters before anyone else bites the dust...

#speakup
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