Gaming Creator Manuel Otto Dies at 30
The founder of the popular game Stick Run reportedly took his own life during a live stream on Twitch.
Influencer Manuel Otto, the creator of the multiplayer game Stick Run, has died at the age of 30. Otto passed away on Tuesday evening in Germany, with his death believed to have occurred during a live broadcast on the streaming platform Twitch.
The Stick Run company confirmed Otto's death in a statement released Tuesday, expressing deep concern and asking for privacy for those involved. The company also urged the community to refrain from spreading unverified information or speculation, noting that Twitch had removed the livestream and associated video.
Stick Run was a popular game that launched on Facebook in 2010 before becoming available on mobile devices. The company stated that Otto, who masterminded the game at the age of 14, created something that was "more than just a game" and became "part of our childhood." The game reportedly amassed over 43 million players worldwide.
In its statement, the Stick Run company acknowledged Otto's work had become "part of our lives" and that "his legacy will live on through every memory, every run, and every player who grew up playing Stick Run." Condolences were shared for Otto's family, friends, and "everyone whose life he touched."
The company encouraged anyone with information that could clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident to come forward. Gaming fans shared their condolences online, with many expressing that the game held a significant place in their childhoods.
For those seeking support, the 24/7 US National Suicide Prevention hotline is available at 988, and resources can also be found at SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.