TL;DR
- Riot Games confirmed investigation into EG’s alleged mistreatment of autistic player Danny Sakamaki
- Multiple journalists reported EG failed to provide adequate support during international relocation
- Danny continued competing despite mental health struggles during LCS playoffs
- Third-party law firm conducting independent investigation into player welfare concerns
- Case highlights growing focus on mental health protections in professional esports
Riot Games has initiated a formal inquiry into allegations concerning Evil Geniuses’ handling of professional player Kyle “Danny” Sakamaki’s welfare during his tenure with the organization.
Initial reporting from veteran esports journalist Richard Lewis in February 2023 revealed systemic organizational failures that contributed to Danny’s departure from competitive League of Legends. Lewis documented how the player’s abrupt mid-playoff exit stemmed from insufficient support structures rather than performance issues. Additional investigative work by Arsh Goyal provided deeper context, outlining what he characterized as organizational incompetence in managing player wellbeing.
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As a player on the autism spectrum, Danny faced significant challenges when relocated to South Korea for competitive play. The international move created overwhelming sensory and adjustment difficulties that reportedly went unaddressed by EG’s support staff. His mental health deteriorated progressively throughout the Summer Split competitive period, reaching critical levels during playoff preparations.
Despite clear indications he wasn’t competition-ready, Danny remained on stage facing Team Liquid during high-stakes matches. Goyal’s reporting included disturbing claims that EG staff members allegedly blamed the player for “ruining everything” rather than addressing the underlying support deficiencies.
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Contrary to the emerging narrative, Danny publicly defended his former organization via Twitter, stating EG “supported me all the way” during his tenure.
Hello all, ic there has been quite a lot of news out there and I want to tell you that it is completely on me & the accusations towards EG aren’t true. The truth is that the pressure of being an esports pro has overwhelmed me to my breaking point, and EG supported me all the way.
— Dan (@realdannylol) February 28, 2023
Riot Games Investigation Progress
Despite Danny’s public expressions of goodwill toward EG, LCS officials have confirmed Riot Games’ active investigation into alleged mistreatment claims. The situation represents a significant test case for player welfare standards in professional esports.
According to comprehensive reporting from Dexerto, Riot Games acknowledges “awareness of the allegations surrounding the treatment of Evil Geniuses player Danny.” Responding to these serious claims, the LCS engaged an independent third-party legal firm to conduct impartial assessment of the circumstances.
When will Riot be punishing Evil Geniuses for lying to them and causing a fraudulent emergency sub ruling to be made which was in bad faith, based on the information credibly reported?
— Thorin (@Thorin) March 5, 2023
The investigation remains ongoing with limited public information available. Current priorities emphasize protecting the “health, safety, and privacy” of Danny and any other potentially affected competitors.
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Action Checklist
- Evaluate mental health support systems for players with neurodiverse conditions
- Establish clear protocols for international player relocations and cultural adjustments
- Implement independent player advocacy resources separate from competitive staff
- Develop crisis intervention procedures for players experiencing mental health challenges
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