Manuel Otto, the creator of the widely played mobile and web browser game Stick Run, has died at the age of 30. The team behind the game confirmed his passing on October 21, following a Twitch livestream the previous day during which Otto appeared to attempt suicide. Local German news outlets confirmed that a 30-year-old was the sole victim in an apartment fire in Breitbrunn am Chiemsee, Bavaria, on October 20, which was reported by a neighbor.
In an official statement posted on X, formerly Twitter, the Stick Run team acknowledged awareness of the Twitch stream involving its creator and owner, Manuel Otto. They subsequently confirmed his death the following day. "Stick Run was more than just a game," the team stated. "For so many of us, it was a part of our childhood. A game we grew up playing with friends, sharing laughs, competing for high scores, and making memories that will stay with us for a lifetime. It brought people together and became a cherished part of our childhood."
Otto first released Stick Run on Facebook when he was just 14 years old. The game's enduring popularity led to official mobile ports published by Nekki, and by 2023, it had reportedly amassed over 43 million players.
Twitch has not yet released an official statement, but video of the stream in question has been removed from the platform.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to a crisis hotline or mental health service. In the United States and Canada, you can reach the 988 Lifeline by calling or texting 988. In the United Kingdom, you can contact the Samaritans at 116 123. For those in other regions, resources like Find a Helpline or Befrienders Worldwide can provide assistance.