A recent gaming livestream by Elon Musk, conducted from his private jet, ended abruptly after the billionaire faced a barrage of negative comments and lost to an early boss in Path of Exile 2. The SpaceX CEO was testing the capabilities of Starlink for in-flight internet on United Airlines flights. During the two-hour stream, which garnered over 2 million views, Musk endured trolling messages mocking Tesla’s stock performance and spreading conspiracy theories. Despite the backlash, Musk did not respond to any of the comments. This incident has reignited debates about Musk's gaming skills and his public persona.
On Tuesday evening, Elon Musk streamed Path of Exile 2 as part of a test for Starlink's satellite internet service, showcasing its potential for in-flight use. However, the session concluded prematurely when Musk encountered difficulties with the game's first boss fight, the Bloated Miller. Observers noted that while Musk possesses a highly ranked account, his gameplay seemed inconsistent with the expected skill level associated with such an advanced profile. Speculation arose that Musk might have employed assistance to achieve his rankings, a claim he has partially admitted to in previous interviews. During the stream, players bombarded him with taunts and insults, some even questioning his social standing.
The context surrounding this event reveals a broader narrative. As the head of the Department of Government Efficiency under the Trump administration, Musk has faced increasing scrutiny and criticism. While still admired by many Americans, his approval ratings have taken a hit due to controversies involving his gaming reputation and other public stances. His daughter, Vivian Wilson, recently commented on her father's gaming abilities, describing them as subpar and urging him not to pretend to be something he is not. These remarks add another layer to the ongoing discourse about Musk's authenticity and personal interests.
Looking ahead, Musk's role as a special government employee is nearing its expiration date, set at 130 days from the start of Trump's presidency. If his initial appointment aligns with this timeline, his tenure would conclude on May 30. Nevertheless, Vice President JD Vance assures that Musk will continue advising Trump post-tenure. Meanwhile, United Airlines plans to integrate Starlink into their services by the end of 2025, marking a significant advancement in aviation technology thanks to Musk's innovations.
Beyond the immediate outcome of the livestream, the episode underscores broader themes concerning Musk's public image and technological endeavors. It highlights the challenges of maintaining credibility in both professional and recreational spheres, especially when one operates under intense public scrutiny. Musk's journey through these experiences continues to shape perceptions of him as a leader and innovator, leaving audiences eager to see how he navigates future opportunities and criticisms.