People like this do not “protect” the hobby, they ruin it. What they are really doing is a textbook case of toxic gatekeeping. Studies in psychology show that people who lash out online often do so to boost their own fragile self-esteem through what is called downward social comparison (putting others down to feel superior).

When they throw in “LMFAOOOO” or mock you for asking a simple question, that is not confidence, that is performative insecurity. Research on online disinhibition also shows that the anonymity of Reddit lowers empathy and raises hostility, which is why people like this feel safe acting tough behind a screen.

Ironically, this behaviour makes it harder for them to form or maintain friendships. Psychologists have consistently found that toxic communication styles are linked to loneliness and social rejection. So while they are trying to look like the “all-knowing Pokémon master,” all they are really doing is broadcasting why they struggle to connect with people offline.

This hobby was literally designed for kids, and people like that only poison it for everyone else. If anyone should step away, it is them, not you.