Dealing with roleplayers in a video game

[@sprgemil]

I used to be Ben, and Fireheart (Sir Smileyface) was my escape character in all my RPG's. Sir Smileyface was brave and a hero to all the people, I was Ben. One day I met a player like Britt, who broke down my internal barriers and saved my life. We met in real life about a year later and he's been my best friend since then. 8 years later we still log in every now and then, and all the good memories come right back. Masterful acting from both of them, thank you VLDL.

[@OublietteTight]

Juliette Clarrise Wraith let me follow her around, watch her, laugh with her. She was fun and flirty and brave. Quick with a knife, faster with a wink. I was just her Mun. (Mundane person behind the keyboard.) But she let me in on all her secrets and stories. I miss her. 😢

[@immortalsofar5314]

I think I may have LARPed Fireheart. I didn't save anything in reserve and now I don't think I can get off.

[@OublietteTight]

@@immortalsofar5314 oh to LARP again. It would be wonderful.

[@Femren]

As much as I love the funny stuff on this channel this is where I think the actors really shine. Ben is absolutely amazing! The delivery of that monologue hit so deep, its OUTRAGEOUS!

[@CanisoGaming]

You using Ben's outrageous line to describe how wholesome his acting here was is absolutely OUTRAGEOUS.

[@rhabeldibabeldi6812]

second that

[@european-one]

For real, their acting is so dingo

[@nickelpickel3924]

Has me teary eyed.

[@cea6770]

Ben is a professional actor beyond this youtube channel

[@Noulvari]

"He thinks some pretty dark things sometimes…" his voice cracking a bit makes the delivery that much more impactful

[@Khano94]

That absolutely hit way to close to home with me! An absolutely amazing performance ❤

[@benluttenberger7860]

I feel targeted.. maybe a little less WoW for a while..

[@michellemilner3380]

"He even threatened to....... but i talked him out of it" Man, that's some great writing and Ben nails it. What an episode!

[@florianmeier451]

umm, perhaps his friend ben got the right thoughts and wanted to delete the game, because he recognized its not doing all good for him. but firehart had to fight for his life and pursuade ben not to delete the game. but firehart also knows what he did to ben.

[@danielross7983]

I was tearing up.

[@jimmyh2137]

"To stop playing this game"

[@iwantcoolname]

@@jimmyh2137 or "to shoot the school up", you never know

[@spirokaci]

Ben is Firehart@@florianmeier451

[@ozamiel2012]

Now I am convinced that Ben can nail EVERY role he is given.

[@peterrealar2.067]

I'm convinced too. I loved him as Death Knight.

[@gamelover2222]

Master of rolly-polly!

[@hraharahra]

@@peterrealar2.067 my most favorite Ben's character is B.O.B. from the DnD series. Squeak-squeak! Absolutely hilarious!

[@EntropyKC]

His example of how nifty he was into the jump, clap and "huzzah!" after Britt agreed to party with him was brilliant, funniest video for a while!

[@-PRPLEHZE-]

[@sethlancaster]

Your ability to mix humor with raw emotions is a real gift.

[@kathrina3339]

Ben is equally good at comedy and drama! Really great job 👍

[@raven4k998]

he never shuts up🤣🤣🤣

[@NightLancerX]

@@raven4k998 ...and you don't want him to!

[@Maximumm_]

You know their names?

[@-PRPLEHZE-]

When i saw this comment it was at 666 likes, that shits

[@Teelee97]

He is brilliant entertainer.

[@WibbleRugby]

Bens's look at 2:45 is simply put, masterful acting. Everything that is revealed in his monologue, is personified at that moment. The hesitation and the unwillingness to break character as he doesn't like the other side of his character is pretty heartbreaking. Viva this was absolutely exceptional, it raises awareness that it's ok to not be ok and reinforces just the so-understated message that little kindness goes a long way. You never know what someone is going through, and if we can show that little extra kindness, we can do a lot of good for people. Masterful guys. No other word for it.

[@DrSwazz]

Yeah, it was that not wanting to break character that really hit

[@thichinhphan4010]

Yes yes it's ok to not be ok *for now*. But indulging in fictional worlds to escape one's mortal follies and life for a considerable amount of time without taking any actual step to improve one's stuck-in-the-dump attitude is different, it's akin to slowly withering oneself. It's not even about living sluggishly or dying slowly. At least Ben in this skit knows he wants to be helped, and he's ready to crack the mask because it's an unconscious desire, a desperate call for help. But his negative mindset shouldn't change that easily. As long as this Ben rejects his own self, he will never escape his delusion bubble/gaming world.

[@AshwinSelvakumar]

Britt and Ben are such good actors. Turning an irritating/funny sequence into a deep moment so quickly and expertly

[@lanarkorras4411]

I agree. The quality of their acting is quite remarkable at times. It certainly is here on all accounts!

[@johnwoodworth9127]

Yes very much so. One moment I'm laughing and by the end I'm just about in tears, then back to laughing.

[@mermidion7552]

Ben i give you. but Britt is mostly playing the same roles in most skits (either the annoyed one or the tag-along).

[@aldeen9190]

It would be like witcher on netflix

[@xxpoisonblxx]

@@mermidion7552 There's a bit of a sociopolitical underpinning to that, I suspect. It's more common for women to voice complaints on social or emotional topics these days. As they quite bluntly call out in other skits, it's *still* unusual from the male voice comparatively, especially without being couched in some self qualifying side bravado. Having her play the focal role of things like this scene (while in reality leaning on the escapism of the online world and gaming is pretty universal) risks anywhere from "well this is nothing new" to some potentially even calling it disingenuous ("how could a pretty girl like that be unhappy?!" as though looks are magic) or attention seeking... if they'd simply reversed these two roles exactly as they are. Even the *very* classic points where Britt got to be the focal point rather than a supporting role early on in the more serious topic scenes, like making the blunt references to the armor disparity for example, it was framed to the absurd (Greg's trying very hard to avoid the topic, and then the "Why don't you try it on now?") from *others* in the scene. Had it been *her* taking the absurd (even in the re-visit to that topic, with right and proper equality, she played the comedic foil right up until the punchline), it wouldn't have come off as quite as genuine a critique of the issue, as well.

[@dc345601]

Wow, this was an unexpected punch in the gut. Both Ben and Britt prove themselves, once again, as phenomenal actors.

[@thegame346]

Honestly that was some of the best acting of a sensitive subject I think I have ever seen. Ben and Britt have some excellent range when it comes to their characters.

[@vincedanley8143]

Thank you for this episode. Powerful message, addressing a serious subject with humour and sensitivity. Well done!

[@hman6159]

Lol

[@xenastars]

Wow

[@temperedglass1130]

Ok wokey

[@florit3186]

@@temperedglass1130 what does that mean?

[@jstingray]

Ben is so good at these scenes. You can really see the emotion as he says his lines. Every time he stars in an episode like this, I just want to give him a big hug, and let him know he's not alone.

[@EkkoMr]

his acting really raises my emotions towards the character he is playing

[@5H4D3]

Maybe it's less acting and more personal experience.

[@hoid9407]

​@@5H4D3 I don't think he's drawing on his own experience but he's very empathetic. He's very involved in the BJJ scene, he's got really good friendships with the VLDL group, and he comes across on his streams as comfortable in his own skin. However, all of VLDL have struggled with things, and I think everyone questioned themselves a lot during the lockdowns and everything. That's why they did the mental health skits. I think Ben is just a great actor who gets people.

[@desrahul200]

Ben is such an amazing actor. His expressions were outstandingly good...teared up my eyes!!!

[@CrysisTube]

I was wondering who was cutting onions...

[@VivaLaDirtLeague]

Those damn ninjas chopping onions

[@Paul.Arnold]

I think you mean outrageously good

[@davidtauriainen9116]

It was Greg with potent garlic.

[@robertoaltuve4145]

@@VivaLaDirtLeague please make a skit about the ninjas and the onions, I think it's time already someone do it.

[@marksmith9991]

Ben needs an award for his superb acting, when they do serious and sad clips you can really tell these guys and girls are superb at what they do.

[@alekz112]

Ben Hamish and Byron are top-tier, honestly. The others are good too but those three are a class apart. Britt and Rowan are really good as well, I'd place them a shade below the first three.

[@Jud1cator]

Mental health is a serious issue. Fireheart screamed of "help" and you guys captured it amazingly. Thank you for another wonderful video.

[@toEatFriedFrogs51]

you mean fireheart's friend

[@DMLand]

So damn wholesome. The VLDL mental health theme crosses over into Epic NPC Man: perfection in every frame.

[@THE_SOSC]

I read ur comment in Ben's voice

[@onekornstar]

I commented the same thing on their FB vid. Great crossover with the mental health and Epic NPC!

[@sh11death]

I would LOVE to see a whole arc with these two. Ben gaining confidence in himself as he actually learns the game and gets better at it and Britt learning to let loose and enjoy the journey.

[@procrasy]

That would be amazing.

[@guardian7keys]

i pay money for that

[@tymurrell]

100%

[@sebastianosionnides]

^^^ this

[@TheRewasder97]

Yes pls! In the final episode she's roleplaying while he has stopped doing it!

[@thenute4087]

Britt wrote this episode! Unbelievably good. Well done y'all!

[@syedrafiqkazim448]

Quite the tear jerker

[@Wiseguy150]

How do you know?

[@Gooniath]

​@@thenute4087 I was about say "source: trust me bro", thanks for the source 👍

[@athenadixon2110]

👏👏👏

[@surlywildcat7726]

Awesome! I cried so hard because the writing is so amazing and relatable. I took the meaning as beyond just the Fireheart character and to be the roles we all play in life.

[@AlexanderKitchenko]

This episode was really something... Special. Left me, an almost 37 year old man, in tears. Britt, thanks for writing this, and Ben - your acting was brilliant!

[@harrymillar4193]

How do you know who wrote each individual episode?

[@thatwolfteen2047]

They have a comunity post where it says that Britt wrote it :) @@harrymillar4193

[@t-dogggamer7356]

This was a surprisingly comforting video and Britt showing empathy by sending a friend invite to Ben actually brought me in an emotional state. Thank you for addressing real issues for people struggling❤

[@doggolovescheese1310]

Until he stalks her, and leaves her body in a dump somewhere...

[@arazec1014]

​@@doggolovescheese1310 dawg don't bring down the wholesome video

[@fathersamueldubois6873]

this genuinely almost brought a tear to my eye - their content is just so good!

[@Har1ByWorld]

its actually a pity, not empathy and its shallow

[@llIlIlllII]

Yeah.... you can't force yourself to be a friend to someone you just don't like. You can be charitable, but it ends up being draining to you. I've tried. People will suck you dry and even act entitled to your time and attention, no matter how kind you try to be.

[@aleksandarstevanovic5854]

Thank you guys for bringing up mental health issues now and then, i know a lot of gamers that are pushing that under the carpet, its nice to know that they are not alone

[@GoodBoyGoneDad]

Some people don't realize how video games are a form of escapism and therapeutic for many of us.

[@BlutwoAnimations]

one that I know was so bad at games that they gave them up and started animating because they realized that no matter how much they loved games, it made their health worse. you can't lose to an NPC when you animate.

[@MalakMacabre]

Sometimes these videos hit deep. ❤

[@flattmeister1704]

Kings and Queens lift each other up.

[@xSixSx]

I live my life vicariously through video games because working a 9-5 is depressing and video games are a great form of escapism

[@KatimaGaming]

Ben just threw his entire acting repertoire into this episode! The man's got range! BRAVO!!!

[@saint4986]

would be funny if another character comes into the szene and said hey iam Ben and it continue like this :D

[@rocksnrolls]

Thank you... this genuinely hits incredibly close to home. Losing yourself in games to escape a world you're too scared to truly explore... Burn on, fireheart.

[@niguriani]

Ben's acting in this skit was a succulent surprise! 😂

[@djdeemz7651]

It wasnt acting it was a confession

[@SILENTVIXXSIN]

@@djdeemz7651 🥺

[@szdan2k]

Ben? I did't see him, only Britt and FireHearth! 🤓

[@criztu]

@@djdeemz7651 a succulent confession!

[@angrygardengnome]

I played ESO for 5 years with a man name Kysar who was my best friend. This sketch made me cry because he was very much like Fireheart, but differed in that he wasn't able to talk himself out of it that last time and nor could I. We loved that game and played it 8+ hours a day together through different jobs and moves to different states over the years. After he died it was broken. The loading screen would make me cry (much like I am now recanting all this) and no matter how many times I have tried since, I can't play the game anymore. If you're contemplating something like that, please don't. No matter what you've convinced yourself of, there are people out there who care about you--even if they're just someone you know through a videogame. It's been nearly three years and there are still so many of us who miss Kysar every day. Most of us cannot play the game anymore because of the sad memories it brings up, but we do still keep in touch with each other when we can. Love you Ky, and miss you every damn day.

[@toffylikesgames]

I'm sorry for your loss :( I'm glad that in that time Kysar had a friend in you!

[@DavidSchwegler]

Beautifully said ❤

[@seanurquhart3179]

I'm sorry you went through that. Sounds like they were a good person that impacted others, even through the media of a game.

[@angrygardengnome]

@@seanurquhart3179 He was genuinely one of the nicest people ever. In the game he was an amazing player and would always be down to help a new player learn the game and help them get good at it. He was gentle, kind, and always willing to lend a hand. And we would talk about life and our day to day bs. Or share a bunch of laughs and whatnot while fighting in the middle of a large battle. I look back in those days and smile about the good times. But his demons won in the end and it broke a lot of hearts. I was so very lucky to get to know him for as long as I did. We all were.

[@ItsReallyGeo]

R.I.P. Kysar. For what it's worth, I'm sure you made those 5 years better for him in some measurable way.

[@uniquely_mo]

Ooft, the acting in this one! I teared up. It’s so nice to see Ben in this light, compared to his usual roles, and Britt carried herself with her usual greatness. Amazing job, guys

[@badmaniak]

He is not acting. He acting that he acting. ;) He told it in other videos. ;)

[@grumpynomad3551]

I loved him in the “let’s mug em!” Video and he had like no words in that.

[@thronosstudios]

Wow, Ben's acting is absolute art. Nails every gesture, every word, every emotion; what a master of his craft

[@MuhammadSaad-wm7me]

Ben's acting is phenomenal in this. He portrayed the duality of his character exceptionally well. Huzzah!

[@UnofficialCyane]

yeah he did an amazing job

[@alkaholic4848]

It's one of Britt's best too. Her facial expressions and timing was done to perfection. Watch it again and notice all the small detail like the searching eyes while he's talking, quiver of a lip here and there, looking away/back at key moments. Contrasting with her slightly-exasperated blank expression when he goes over the top with fireheart. Might not be immediately obvious just how much impact it makes, but it does. Agree with you about Ben still btw. The music was perfectly timed too - switching between the cheerful when in character and sombre when it got serious. The whole scene was exceptionally well done.

[@MuhammadSaad-wm7me]

@@alkaholic4848 yeah, true. Though I didn't overlook her acting, I just commented about Ben because he made a return after a while :))

[@loopkill]

The sequel and duo that we didn't deserve, but desperately needed. VLDL always does just a great job at melding silly scenes with serious issues in such a heartfelt and genuine way. Hats off to Britt and Ben!! ❤️‍🩹

[@mckilly1819]

Quality comment brother!

[@lilspyguy4206]

I can relate to everything about his friend "Ben", it was something I and I bet a lot of other people needed to hear today. I love when you guys do these rollercoasters of emotions. One of the main reasons I treat everyone kindly in games, have over 800 friends I don't know, and accept friend requests because you never know what they're going through and sometimes all they need is a small kind act of validation. Bravo VLDL!👋

[@DrSwazz]

That’s a good point/idea!

[@JohnDoe-tn6dk]

I honestly never thought of it like that, thank you.

[@chrisgross7866]

It's on 69 likes so I'm not gonna like this but I do indeed agree with you and like this

[@konstellashon1364]

@@chrisgross7866 tough, someone moved it past 69. And I made it 100.

[@karisrahl4444]

I really don't relate to extremely introverted or shy archetypes but hey, if people find this inspirational then VLDL are hitting the mark yet again.

[@heededshadow509]

Man... this hit close to home. Viewed video games as an escape most my life, and there was a time when I was nearly wrecking my life because of my desperate attempts to escape it. It was a deep, dark hole that I'm still amazed I got out of to be honest. I still play games now, but I don't use them as an escape like I used to, and I'm a lot healthier mentally.

[@Shahrezad1]

I am glad to hear that you are doing better. ❤ My husband is the gamer, but I used books as an escape, myself. So I understand how it can pull you in, when it seems like it's a happier place than you are currently. I truly am glad that things have improved for you.

[@nathan-2924]

Thank you sir. I still am struggling with that; and you shedding a light on that helps me a lot. This video has pretty much summarized what I am going through and your comment has brought hope to me that I may overcome this struggle. Thank you again.

[@DeshWitus]

❤

[@DZ1xgaming]

Starts goofy, gets dark, then ends on a high note. Also, Ben is so good. Need another Souls series my man.

[@Unity_Through_Music]

Or the Elden Ring series at least

[@davidhibbs3396]

Ooh! Do a 'dirty' version of elder scrolls. Not too much but the reactions Ben would give ...sooooooo funny!

[@JoelGao]

AGREED! Elden Ring-Ben!

[@jorgwei8590]

Return of Souls would make me a happy man.

[@AtomPunk]

I was already teary-eyed and then he got to the "trapped" part and I was done for. When these things get discussed, that feeling usually isn't talked about. So I'm sorry that the writer(s) probably knows that pain, but thank you for sharing it with us. Didn't see that conversation coming at all. This meant a lot, thank you for making this.

[@cherrydragon3120]

It takes one to know one i a saying in holland. To know an emotion is to have felt the emotion. And given Britt write the script. I hope she's doing okay

[@HAL-9OOO]

​@@cherrydragon3120 How do you know Britt wrote this?

[@Crowvoran]

From NPC-Man to Route of Baelin, From the Souls Logic to the new Survival series, from D&D to Work skits - Your growth is, was and always will be an amazing experience to witness ~ As characters, team members and actors.

[@Dargoneth]

Now let's hope they get the subscriber and view amount they deserve so they can stop with the sponsored vids

[@chrisdudleytrumpet]

@@Dargoneth sponsored vids are the only reason you can sit at home uncontributingly and watch content someone else works hard to make, literally none of us care that they do sponsored videos and none of us are asking to stop, so it's okay, you can pipe down.I also don't think they dislike doing them so I don't know why you're implying that

[@Dargoneth]

@@chrisdudleytrumpet I for one, have donated a considerable amount to them. Did you? Also, don't speak for everyone, i'm sure the ones in their right mind can see that their own content is way better than this "free healing option" and so on.

[@chrisdudleytrumpet]

@@Dargoneth I have, but great job at shifting the pole. I don't mock their content which was the reason for asking. Again, I say, those promotions help them, and therefore, none of us are complaining. I do indeed speak for everyone

[@Dargoneth]

@@chrisdudleytrumpet Pole? There's none, as self centered as you are. Just cause noone else says it doesn't mean i'm wrong. Their content is better than them advertising and the fewer of it, the better their channel gets, period

[@leveluppupgaming7207]

As someone going through exactly what Ben describes, including dark thoughts and even.....well, I was talked out of it (by Elden Ring), I just wanted to say how beautiful and powerful this episode was for me. To hear I'm not the only one who may have felt this way and feels they were saved by gaming, means so much to me.

[@keonarobinson6755]

Well I hope you find other games to lose yourself in whenever in need to do so from this messed up reality we live in. Keep going! Xoxo

[@gameplayer77801]

The world we live in is a scary place, and it's easy to feel like you're alone in it. But just imagine how many other people feel the same way you do, struggling with similar situations and trying to fight their way through it. Nobody is ever truly alone. There will always be other people out there, you just have to hold on until you find them 😊

[@mikoto7693]

How similar to me. To play games in order to forget reality for a few hours.

[@AlphaOmega08922]

Part of me was worried that they'd make a joke of it at the end and say that he was making it up for sympathy or attention, like so many other depictions of this type of subject matter. So glad that they didn't, and that they show this kind of subject the care and respect it deserves. Thanks, VLDL team, for being there and existing.

[@Nonsens89]

Agree! That would have been the easy thing to do. But VLDL chose to be brave instead. Still ended the bit with a laugh, but not at the expense of the vulnerability that came before. This vid had heart!

[@Zalaves]

I really like this kind of people in game, they make me fell like I’m playing game, not working.

[@DarklyDepressed]

The VLDL guys have been really good with this type of subject matter - see their mental health series. The one where Rowan is following Ben round as his mental health is phenomenally impactful. Ben is genuinely fantastic in these roles. love the guy. absolute legend. they all are , but Ben in particular.

[@tonycosta3302]

I thought she was going to kill him at some point.

[@Barberserk]

VLDL are bros they wouldn't do that to us.

[@FortKnoxMovies]

I was so nervous there’d be some kind of mean spirited twist. I’m glad there wasn’t just a genuine beautiful short story. It makes me want to see a whole adventure film with these two!

[@ArDeeMee]

The balance is key. I love VLDL can do both sides, and many in between. It’s easier to laugh at the meaner jokes if you know they can be heartfelt, too. If they were 100 % mean, I wouldn’t be here. =)

[@HeyBullShorts]

Yes please!

[@saphiregough1480]

Did you see Rowan? I did not. lol (Much luv Rowan)

[@sc0rch3d]

oh...it'll be a nice day for fishin...

[@shawdowz6732]

These two need to keep going with these skits, their characters have good chemistry!

[@VivaLaDirtLeague]

We’re planning a few more!

[@sulac4ever170]

​@@VivaLaDirtLeague I would absolutely love to see that ❤

[@FaultAndDakranon]

@@VivaLaDirtLeague Hurray!

[@iahwhite3875]

Do it, great character, one of my favorites

[@gackmcshite4724]

Brett has come a long way from O'Driscols? Let's kill 'em.

[@TK___________]

The "nothing on Azerim would make me happier" -line hits in a whole lotta different way at a second watching. What a brilliant and EXCRUCIANTINGLY SWEETLY WHOLESOME video!

[@HeisenbergFam]

1:10 the "im ever so swift and nifty" and the dance moves are priceless

[@Eir1]

The best part🤌

[@Mavve69]

I like when he said Swift and nifty and swift and nifty’ed all over the place

[@Masjelana]

Watched it so many times within 7 minutes of uploading lol

[@adamhugibear7]

Ben is such a good actor

[@MistycEldar]

New Fortnite dance? :D

[@The2KXperience]

A massive round of applause for everyone at VLDL. The acting and production quality was always good, but recently I feel like it's gone to a new level. Not only is the channel becoming one of the best channels in its genre, I feel like it's becoming one of the best channels on KZbin period. Awesome, awesome video.

[@fredriksvard2603]

The cinematography or "color grading" is superb here, no matter what they used or how much of it is done in post. Almost looks better than the lotr shire scenes.

[@shrujanamsyama9940]

Ben's acting was always good. His range is professional level.

[@jbear83]

I can just imagine Ben logging off after she leaves and just weeping because of that genuine act of kindness he was shown and finally being able to make a connection with someone, even if it was only on a digital plain. Excellent episode and fantastic acting from both!

[@FredFraggadelic]

"only on a digital plain"? i am sorry but friends made online are as "real" as any other friend you would make at work or i dont know shopping mall. I have online friends i game with for decades now.

[@StellarisIgnis]

@@FredFraggadelic Yeah many of my friends are online only, with the occasional meet up in real life for weddings etc. Some of the best friends I have ever had.

[@LandonErp]

I lost one of my closest online only friends about a month ago. It still hurts.

[@StellarisIgnis]

@@LandonErp I am sorry to hear that. Stay strong.

[@Sknerus89]

@@LandonErp Very sorry for your friend, I hope you find peace

[@bunnybearme]

I'm always teased for being "that effing roleplayer". But most of the time, behind the screen, I struggle with my demons. This video basically sums up the online persona I keep up. Thanks VLD and Ben. ♥

[@scarecrow939]

It's not bad to admit that, and never give up on finding connections 😊

[@mynamenlastname1017]

Honestly, I would love to bump into a full roleplayer because it makes gameplay more immersive. I’ll say! I’ll even follow him/her to the ends of the earth aha

[@DrSwazz]

Roleplaying used to be a norm in games. Nowadays the magic of gaming is pretty much taken out thanks to meta chasing, the need for player efficiency, monetization practices, DLC, etc. Respect to role players for sticking to playing their game inside the game.

[@mikoto7693]

Interesting. I roleplay in my games but mostly keep it to myself so I can blend in.

[@psychohist]

@@DrSwazz I think games used to facilitate it more. I used to stay in character religiously because, if I wanted to play real life, I didn't need to be playing a game. The game was only for escape.

[@SpectreInk]

Bruh, are these guys trained actors? Seasoned writers? Their pacing, dialogue, and musical cadence (the way it jumps from joyful to melancholy to joyful again) are just impeccable.

[@Ben-rz9cf]

They've been on actual television shows, yes.

[@elladan23]

​@@Ben-rz9cf something you recommend to watch?

[@KW-de9sc]

Rowan has at least done commercials.

[@versuzzero5335]

One of them is a model.

[@NielsMulvad]

@@KW-de9sc Rowan is the avatar.

[@elibane6549]

this is actually really heartwarming. these kind of moments show humanity in some of the worst places and games. thats what i love about gaming communities. (most people in gaming communities anyways)

[@warriorfire8103]

Some people are genuinely shit. However, some are genuine and we must not take them for granted so that they nourish our spirit and we might do the same in return.

[@remyzzzzz]

Hello, what do you play ? :)

[@Eas697]

Okay, this one actually made me cry. It hit a bit too close to home. Phenomenal

[@TheHunters_Wall]

The Dawn of internet my friend.. we are all so easy connected that we couldn't be more far apart. It's pretty sad really.

[@MysticMan184]

When something hits that close to your heart... 😓

[@EwetoobSucks]

🤣🤣🤣

[@HDproductionnal]

Depression is a leading cause of mental illness in men. With the advent of social media, online games connectivity can never be so far apart

[@YoUnGFrEaKniK]

@@TheHunters_Wall thats deep asf

[@spectre1x]

Don't give content creators money. I just don't, but this one's worth it. Keep up the comedy and, honestly, get Ben into a professional gig. The man has a talent. Thanks for making a video that got a chuckle and a legit tear in my eye. I'm sure this hit close to home for a lot of people.

[@nougan_gamer]

Never thought a VLDL video would bring tears to this old man's eyes. Ben... Fireheart's story just hit so close to home... Well written, well acted, well produced, I can feel everyone put their heart & soul into this. Excellent work all round!

[@nickryan3417]

There are a few others that cover psychological things and they are delivered in such a heart felt way that they resonate very strongly. At least one I had to stop watching (this is a huge compliment BTW, not a complaint)

[@thejohnbeck]

A lot of people want to be Ferris Bueller, but it's Cameron who grows and changes. Of course this analogy doesn't apply to Sloane. Mia Sara, wow

[@phoenixrising2609]

Aye, same here...Oscar winning performance i say

[@k29king1]

For all the comedy VLDL does, its gotta be said how much their already good acting has improved. Ben’s acting is so good it’s Outrageous. Unbelievable. 😅

[@heatherface1]

Agreed...100%

[@emiliobertoli]

Outrageous indeed!!!

[@gamezonereactions8388]

@@k29king1 Right in the crotch and rainbow patch on your back pocket.

[@justanothermeltingchannel]

Finally! My favorite Ben character returns to the screen! He’s just too dang good to always be a grumpy grumperson. His comedic timing, dramatic chops, this is the ultimate. And the chemistry with Britt as they riff and play off each other is just perfect.

[@DaVane]

I think this needs to be seen by more people. It's powerful stuff. Humour, but with a serious message and powerful feeling, that many can resonate with. Britt and Ben are superb in this video. It almost seems to be trivialising it to call it a skit. Well done VLDL.

[@patrickrobertshaw7020]

I actually cried from this video. I was also expecting it to be a sponsored video by Better Help, but no it was just you guys doing you. This was really touching, thank you

[@elephant1851]

A Better Help ad on this video would make me very depressed.

[@TheDunnDusted]

That was legitimately heartbreaking, you got me to tear up. So many people feel this way. It's important to listen. It's important to let them know you will listen.

[@CortexNewsService]

I was not expecting emotions first thing in the morning

[@meoff7602]

It's equally important to set boundaries. I'm all for being nice, but can't get sucked into other people's problems.

[@Rigele100]

yeah its so true and relatable

[@TheShamansQuestion]

Just want to acknowledge how good Britt's acting was too. The subtle smile when she spoke through Fireheart to Ben was so well measured.

[@speakingwithoutnet]

Britt definitely did a great job. Without her to play off, Ben's masterful performance wouldn't have hit quite so hard.

[@richarddraggan8290]

@@speakingwithoutnet Thank God you said that I was going to say the exact same thing but forgot her name LOL.

[@shoepenguin]

When that story started, I knew 100% how the video was going to end, but still teared up. Top-tier acting/production there.

[@123goforme8]

Britt: "I'm sure Ben is not that bad of a guy." **moments later in RL at Playtech store with Alan** Ben: "That's absolutely outrageous!" 😅

[@VivaLaDirtLeague]

😂😂😂

[@davidlowson100]

Well he's in a better mood when he has his flat clicker.

[@KevinSmith-qi5yn]

Clearly Playtech should give him free shit as he is an influencer with like 1 friend.

[@zku6rs]

I imagined him playing from Playtech's bathroom 😆

[@deepsouth_bul]

Ben is such a talented actor, wow. Give this man an oscar.

[@VVilkacy]

Who cares about oscars these days anyways?

[@British_Rogue]

Oh god. Not this. This type of comment is made by twelve year olds on the other short form video app.

[@hasards]

Who is this Oscar that you speak of? Is he an adventurer too? Ah, that reminds me of a story...

[@TavoRyuichi]

@@VVilkacy That is true jaja

[@pw.70]

LOL! Yes - he went from being as camp as a row of pink tents, to serious, then back again in a few breaths! Fab acting Ben. Let's not forget Britt, too, mind.

[@yourvenparianen5390]

Ben is such an amazing actor , literally almost cried at this performance. Was heartwrenching with a nice ending.

[@simoncharles6664]

I did

[@Marianojoey]

@@simoncharles6664 me too. :)

[@XHackManiacX]

*sniff* I'm not crying. Just must be someone cutting onions in my room somewhere... Good skit though. Very clever.

[@honor_faith_transform]

Almost? >.>

[@KillerKoala87c]

I’m not crying you’re crying

[@reimusklinsman5876]

This is now one of my favorite videos. The fact that he stays in character conveys so much more paid any any words could

[@eversuperman]

I appreciate how VLDL calls out those who need to be represented. VLDL seems to genuinely care about people. Well done!

[@michael_pilot]

There are wholesome indeed

[@Arendelft]

3:28As a fellow Ben I have to say this cut to the bone. I have been a terribly insecure, pain ridden individual that has only made 1 long lasting friendship in 25 long years. I throw myself into video games to escape a reality I just don't know how to function in. Thank you for giving Fireheart this moment of vulnerability Viva, it is incredibly rare for me to see myself in a character like this, part of why I miss the mental health skits so much. Love ya Viva.

[@spiercephotography]

I, too, am a Ben. So you aren’t alone in that regard 🤗 except I throw myself into watching nature cams instead of video games.

[@oo0Spyder0oo]

Get off the games and you’ll make more than one friend.

[@Fluxikator]

@@oo0Spyder0oo The games are usually a symptom not the problem. So that advice is quite ill fitting.

[@MarkSunderam]

@@oo0Spyder0oo I think you're missing the point here, mate. If it was that easy, nobody would be a "Ben". That's like telling a depressed person to just "be happy". We should be helping by encouraging healthier social approaches, reinforcing confidence, and leading with empathy.

[@TheRetroRiddler]

Also I have made some real life friends through games, especially the social ones where I play with others.

[@Nadyabusiness]

This made me ugly cry. I was waiting for a punchline to cancel all this heartfelt emotion out, I'm glad it didn't really come. I think this will resonate with a lot of people. Thank you for posting this. ❤

[@gr2192]

Darn that monologue hit harder than i thought. And Ben delivers it perfectly! The sad look on Britt's face is also perfect

[@SavvyScribblin]

For many of us, escapism into a fantasy world as a character outside ourselves is how we cope. I really loved this one.

[@aoisora1445]

or sometimes it is a place to be ourselves without the restrictions placed upon us by the real world to conform to a certain way of being thinking, and just be ourselves... but varies from person to person, and for some they just want to hit level cap, pvp and tea bag the enemy

[@homesteadgamer1257]

Truth.

[@cherrydragon3120]

So many people say this and yet the world treat us all as "sick" people. Hope you're all having a decent day out there. You're not alone. There are many of us depressed fucks around. Playing games and such to escape the shitty world. Don't feel scared to talk to people online. Make "virtual" friends and grant yourself a bit of happiness. Even if only temporarily as games evemtualy get shut down anyway.

[@jenniferdixson860]

As an avid RP'er who suffers from anxiety and depression, this definitely relates. We are all real people behind our characters, and some of us struggle. Probably a lot of us.

[@SignOfTheTimes008]

It's great escapism.

[@nickryan3417]

It's an amazing way of letting go of our struggles and to enjoy things in a safe way. OK, it can get real and we get attached to our characters and the scenarios they find themselves in, but in the end if done right it's fun even when we fail as we can look forward to doing it again.

[@Crow-Fly]

It's so touching that you have characters talk about those dark feelings every so often. It's just nice knowing someone else get it :) really means a lot, you are all amazing❤

[@erwinguzman8878]

Why are emojis exclusive it's stupid

[@GamingWithHajimemes]

​@@erwinguzman8878it encourages donations to support channels.

[@Grizzlox]

I like to think that the Ben that struggles with mental health issues in their other videos is the same Ben that's playing Skycraft. It makes me happy to think that he just made an online friend. That can go a long way in helping in the day to day struggle of depression.

[@Drako2k0]

This actually got too real. Hit me a little too close to home back when I was in highschool. I’m ashamed to say this skit actually made me tear up lol.

[@johhanwindsalor9478]

No shame... it hits all of us at some level... *trust me* .

[@jimmylacostejbl]

same as johhan said man don't be ashamed

[@KillerKoala87c]

No shame I cried.

[@CheedaiCorner]

Nothing shameful about having empathy, my friend.

[@samgreen4708]

Nothing shameful, it hit hard.

[@dannywade9138]

Great as always, both Brit and Ben made this scene outrageously good. Genuinely brought a tear to my eye. Well done.

[@jasonhiatt3667]

Wtf, that was really heartbreaking and wholesome and incredibly well acted from both.

[@shanekenady7329]

These two have so much chemistry together on stage.

[@_khooman_chronicles_]

I'm really happy that they didn't make the skit into one with a funny twist in the end. And the fact that Brittney accepted that she can't relate to the sad loner brings a bit of genuineness to her character.

[@timl.b.2095]

Yeah, I as biting my lip thinking they were going to go with a typical twist.

[@jaroldscottwilliams.3rd832]

I think they really do know when to joke and when not to joke. They're a good group of humans.

[@DrSwazz]

They’re a good little group of fellow Homo sapiens indeed.

[@riccardocurrao7619]

I love when the skit takes this real and out of meta turn

[@raven4k998]

oh my they have bonded for life🤣🤣🤣

[@MODGAMINYT]

The part where fireheart starts speaking about their friend Ben hit so close to home, as somebody who deals with social anxiety, making friends, talking to people they don't know, gaming was always my safety net, being able to lose myself in a game world where I don't have to face and deal with the problems and troubles of the world, I struggle in person when it comes to strangers, it actually scares me and sometimes can give me a panic attack when I'm surrounded by those who are unknown to me, I have mental disabilities soo, I've practically been picked on my whole life for it which caused me to have a fear of others but through games I can be me, online play I can be myself because if I don't mix with somebody there's always another out there to game with but if it was an in person situation I just couldn't do it

[@Salahuddin-jc4fy]

What scares me is that how will i get a job, get a girlfriend, get married. If i ever get married and have children, unlike my parents i will never stop them to go out and spending more time with friends.

[@BarachielGaming]

Same 😥

[@patrickmccurry1563]

Same, but medications for general anxiety, panic attack, and social phobia are helping me slowly. And I did find love which shocks me to this day 24 years later. So there is always hope. (I'm 48 if that puts anything into perspective.)

[@djslip_irie]

Fellas, try to think of IRL as a game. It might change your perspective. Pick the small quests to complete first. Take what your good at in mmo and use it irl. Help people , compliment people . See people , they’ll see you. Being nice goes a long way.

[@SilverDelta79]

Oddly, I'm very much the same. When I go to work, I'm a truck driver, the gamer me is alive. When I'm not at work, I go from a tiger to a mouse. Going outside is like a tactical assault. I wish I could say it gets easier, but, I think I just cope better. Don't be afraid to push your limits ever slightly. Don't feel bad for retreating. Knowing many people feel as you do may bring some comfort. Those who don't understand just haven't experienced this. Just make sure to focus on what truly makes you happy. I have no problem sitting here alone playing a game. Throwing a comment out into the ether. It could be better, but, I'm happy wrapped up like a burrito in my recliner. Do whatever makes you happy.

[@Gristoufle2]

Can't help but rewatch this episode from time to time. Very well written.

[@mysterbean2]

Hats off to Fireheart for talking Ben out of that thing! He's a better therapist than Rowan

[@MichaelJohnson-kq7qg]

That bit hit hard for me - I've known a lot of people over the years that only made it because of the support groups they had on these online environments. And some that didn't. Weird to think that sometimes it's something like Warcraft that saves lives.

[@-PRPLEHZE-]

[@ElimRawne]

Honestly, a hamster is a better therapist than Rowan. 😅

[@ImPhoebe]

Wow, it hits even harder when you rewatch it again, when he says "nothing on Azerim would make me happier" Fireheart/Ben actually means it ! That reaction from Brett was so heart warming at the end, I'm really hoping to see that character duo more in the future, and see that relation build up towards friendship maybe ? Really funny yet deep emotional episode guys, well played.

[@homesteadgamer1257]

Ditto all of this. I would love to see a miniseries of this duo.

[@fedanimal5955]

This is an outstanding performance. Probably one of the best Ben and Brit have ever done. Huge applause for this! This is so entertaining. Great job everyone!!

[@venox_x8934]

*Flashback to the Gamer Santa incident*

[@gasura]

Actually brought tears to my eyes. This skit reminds me to always be kind to people, even in games. You never know what kind of shit people are going through.

[@harishbabu740]

This hit far too close to home. As much as I enjoy the fun skits, I love it when you guys manage to take serious situations and deliver them with absolute respect.

[@tasselhoff1293]

Holy smokes. I actually had a tear in my eye during that monologue. Ben has some serious acting skills. Ty guys. Ty for sharing your humor with us. We love you for it!

[@gamertelt9841]

Never would I think I'd nearly cry at a Viva La Dirt League skit

[@gamertelt9841]

@@sh11death Oh no, they're amazing also. But this one hits wayy too close to home.

[@cenciende9401]

Wow, you've missed a LOT of them huh?

[@riko0029]

Oh, I'm in full loner guy mode. I haven't cried for 2-3 years, but this cut me so deep I started hyperventilating so much that my cat thought it imperative that I need help. I've been sat on the bed for the last ten minutes doing nothing, just trying to collect my thoughts.

[@wilfdarr]

Yes... nearly...

[@cybertonto72]

@@riko0029 you should try and do this at least once a week, or even every day. Sit and collect your thoughts, and just be with your self. It does me a wonder of good. PS you are loved and you are valued, keep strong

[@FatGuyInSpace]

I love how when he talks about his adventures he's probably just talking about quests everyone has probably already done

[@ckEagle165]

Thank you, truly. What you're doing is so important for mental health awareness. As someone with anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts, this really makes me feel seen. You guys don't have to do this, you could just keep doing the great comedy you've always done. But this is next level, and really makes you all stand out from most of the rest of KZbin. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart!

[@cherrydragon3120]

Same here. Been that way for over 15 years. Still here tho~ just riding out this fickle candle of life. Waiting patiently for it to burn out by itself. I have no need to extinguish the flame even if i want to. There are too many things that have me curious and wanting to know. Yet humanity is just an everlasting roadblock for everything. Glad i got games tho to keep my mind occupied, who knows what crimes i would have had commited to the dipshits around me if games didn't take half my life and keeping me somewhat entertained

[@anscyclopedia]

I hope now I will never have to explain to my friends why Ben is my favourite VLDL actor... Ben's acting = Perfection + Emotion + Comedy and Drama ❤️

[@tomosjackson4760]

Outrageous 😉

[@ulazerg7163]

@@tomosjackson4760 I was going to reply the same

[@dannibal]

I'm just afraid he ain't acting at all...

[@TheShamansQuestion]

Agreed. He's mine too.

[@oliversmoochies8973]

Seriously. They gave him some lines and some props and he gave us real magic

[@hibikikyo87]

To say that Ben's outstanding acting performance deserves an Oscar is an understatement.. Well done Fireheart!

[@douglass1221]

Ben is such a treasure. Just the simple line, “have you lost something?” is so perfectly intoned for that character. Anyone can deliver the big lines, but when you master the little ones…it is just a delight to watch. Thanks, Ben!

[@ambival1]

Even though both have been part of the recurring cast for years, I feel that this was the first time when Ben and Britt acted in a scene together without the main cast. It's weird, but satisfying to see such milestones being crossed so casually.

[@VivaLaDirtLeague]

The first episode with these two characters didn’t have the three of us in either

[@HariSeldon913]

@@VivaLaDirtLeague I still think Britt should have tried saying 'skip' to Ben's stories at the start.

[@fishhead1982]

@@VivaLaDirtLeague link or it didn't happen

[@d.t.m8393]

Only a little over 5 minutes long and somehow more engaging, better written, and better performed than most of what's on TV these days. Needless to say, great work gang! 👏

[@BryanSchmidtSchmidty]

This is a good reminder that everyone you meet, whether in real life or virtually, may have personal struggles that we are unaware of. Be kind to everyone. Great video!

[@somebodyelse6673]

Except Nazi's. Do not be kind to Nazi's, neo or otherwise.

[@21joebloe]

@@somebodyelse6673 based

[@arazec1014]

​@@somebodyelse6673 based

[@BouncingTribbles]

Sometimes the big mask is hiding an even bigger pain (probably usually... not sometimes)

[@theodentherenewed4785]

Everybody has some problems and people just deal with them in their own way.

[@CasualPlayback]

Absolutely brilliant story and acting, a very well executed film. Would love to see another part to this. It has potential to be a feature length project!

[@hopesjourneyVA]

4:20 is so real and I feel for Fireheart and Ben. Not all Roleplayers got tragic backstories IRL, but the ones who have them are a able to come up with the coolest ideas. One time in FFXIV, Ul'Dah, as Scholar took culinary arts class and she gifted me a strawberry shortcake 🍰 in the trading menu. I wasn't sure how to react, but she was so sweet that I tried my best to reply in RP. I never got to see her since, but I hope she's doing good today!

[@HaliaxOfTheChandrian]

Bro FFXIV literally has like the hands of the fates guiding its players. I played it literally one time, using a name from a book series I love (all my online names are from books) and somehow in the few hours i played it, i met a girl who was using the name of the protag from that same series, and what made it kinda funny was their character and mine are married in the books by the end. So for like an hour we just legit roleplayed our characters from the books. And it was just completely innocent character roleplay, it didn't get creepy or weird which you'd think it would be. I've seen like several other similar cases of people just finding roleplay situations in that game and it's baffling how it can happen so often.

[@hopesjourneyVA]

@@HaliaxOfTheChandrian I'm so glad you get to have a safe and wholesome experience! In-game mine's based on my IRL name with my persona _"Journey"_ so I don't always RP, but I love the immersion even with MSQs. When you look around long enough, you actually find lots of supportive players in FFXIV who turn their little RP icon too. I'm happy that I haven't ran into many creeps. Usually I'm either minding my own business or with my Homies talking about life.

[@grey_wulf]

Wow, this episode was an emotional rollercoaster. VLDL deserves much respect for the acting and storylines. Great job Ben and Britt - you guys hit me in the feels.

[@gabesarti7184]

The moment Britt heard “by the light!” Her mood went from sad to absolutely terrified xD

[@Anvilshock]

The moment you spelt Britt as Brett …

[@gabesarti7184]

@@Anvilshock thank you. My autocorrect changed it

[@Anvilshock]

@@gabesarti7184 Thank you for having spine enough to acknowledge and fix it instead of becoming hostile and defensive when mistakes like these are pointed out which seems to be much more preferred these days.

[@gabesarti7184]

@@Anvilshock eh, just not my style to do that. If I make a mistake, I will admit and own up to it.

[@MarioLaubacher]

Rewatching this a year later, and it's still unbelievable just how much VLDL manages to kick you right in the feels sometimes.

[@dragonymystic237]

This is so relatable, not just for myself, but for many gaming people. Thank you guys so much for doing what you do

[@JoeB17]

I've missed Ben and what a way to bring him back. He balances comedy and tragedy so well. Please bring Fireheart back more often he and Britt are such a fun and interesting duo.

[@bora7494]

Second that

[@fredriksvard2603]

Is it me or is it reminiscent of Daniel Craig, especially outside of the Bond roles?

[@Ricecakes520]

This skit was incredible and sums up so perfectly why so many of us find refuge in fantasy worlds. Thank you for being so real ❤

[@cherrydragon3120]

It just goes to show how shit the world we currently live in has become.

[@Deadlybudz]

@@cherrydragon3120 not really, if you look at history, we’ve come along way and as Neil Tyson says, the arc of justice bends towards good.

[@leedoomsdaypoke975]

Hella facts ❤

[@JustDoIt12131]

@@Deadlybudz The "arc of justice" only "bends" towards good if the good force it to. There is not a divine entity that magically makes it so.

[@Deadlybudz]

@@JustDoIt12131 no one said anything about any divine anything. I don’t believe in god or an afterlife.

[@cmdrc-dweller3103]

Shows the depth of their skills as actors. A rather moving episode; sure it rang some bells close to home for a lot of viewers. Great work from the whole team VLDL. 🙇🙏