Elon Musk, one of the world’s most influential figures, has admitted to using account boosting and possibly Real Money Trading (RMT) to advance in Diablo 4 and Path of Exile 2 (PoE2). The confession came via DMs shared by YouTuber NikoWrex, who was given explicit permission to discuss the matter in a recent video. Musk’s acknowledgment has sparked a mix of criticism and bemusement within the gaming community.
When asked directly by NikoWrex if he had employed others to play his accounts or purchased in-game gear, Musk replied:
“(100 Emoji) It’s impossible to beat players in Asia if you don’t.”
This statement has raised eyebrows, as it underscores the competitive nature of global gaming while also revealing that one of the richest individuals on the planet resorts to such tactics to stay competitive.
“Never Claimed Sole Credit,” Says Musk
In the same exchange, NikoWrex asked if Musk intended to take full credit for leveling his hardcore characters in Path of Exile 2. Musk denied this, saying:
“No, never claimed that. The top accounts in Diablo or PoE require multiple people playing the account to win a leveling race.”
While Musk insists he was not trying to mislead anyone, his public persona as a gaming enthusiast and his highly ranked characters had led many to assume he was solely responsible for their success. Musk did clarify that he plays his characters at high levels but likened the experience to playing “Cookie Clicker,” suggesting that advanced gameplay often becomes repetitive and mechanical.
Calls for Apology and Community Backlash
Musk’s admissions have not gone down well with segments of the gaming community, particularly hardcore Path of Exile 2 players. When asked if he would apologize to the PoE2 community for the perceived deception, Musk was dismissive, saying:
“What would I be apologizing for?”
This response has only fueled criticism, with many players arguing that Musk’s actions undermine the spirit of competitive gaming. Others, however, have pointed out that account sharing and RMT are not uncommon in the gaming world, especially in regions like Asia, where esports and high-level play are intensely competitive.
The Curious Case of Musk’s Gaming Persona
Musk’s involvement in gaming has always been a peculiar facet of his public image. From sharing memes about gaming culture to showcasing his achievements in Diablo 4 and PoE2, he has portrayed himself as an avid player. However, the revelation that he employs others to boost his accounts casts doubt on his gaming credibility.
Adding to the strangeness of the situation is Musk’s response when asked about collaborating with top PoE2 creators on a live stream. He declined, citing preparations for a “presidential transition” as his priority. This comment has left many questioning how he balances his gaming pursuits with his high-profile responsibilities.
What’s Next for Musk in Gaming?
While Musk’s admissions have sparked a debate on fairness in gaming, they also highlight the blurred lines between casual play and competitive gaming for public figures. Whether this controversy will deter Musk from flaunting his gaming achievements in the future remains to be seen.
For now, the saga serves as a reminder of how even gaming—often seen as a great equalizer—can become a battleground for influence and credibility when high-profile personalities are involved.
