Stick Run Creator Manuel Otto Dies at 30

The development team behind Stick Run has officially confirmed the tragic death of the game’s creator, Manuel Otto. Otto, who was 30 years old, passed away following a deeply distressing incident that occurred during a Twitch livestream on October 20, 2026. As reported by Kotaku, the Stick Run team released a formal statement on X acknowledging that they were aware of a livestream featuring the game’s owner and creator where he appeared to take his own life.

The following day, on October 21, the development team officially confirmed his passing in a subsequent post. Local German news outlets, including OVB Online and PNP, reported that a 30-year-old individual was the only victim identified in a fatal apartment fire that occurred in Breitbrunn am Chiemsee, Bavaria, on the same day. According to reports from local fire and rescue services, the fire was initially reported to authorities by one of Otto’s neighbors.

A legacy in browser gaming

Manuel Otto first introduced Stick Run to the world as a 14-year-old, publishing the endless runner title directly to Facebook. The game quickly became a standout success during the early era of social gaming, evolving from a simple browser project into an immensely popular mobile and web experience. Its success eventually led to the release of several official mobile ports, which were published by Nekki. By 2023, the game had reached a massive milestone, having amassed over 43 million players globally.

In their official statement, the Stick Run team reflected on the significant cultural impact of the title, noting that it functioned as much more than just a software product. The team described the game as a vital piece of childhood for a generation of players who grew up competing for high scores, sharing the experience with friends, and building lasting memories. While Twitch has not issued a formal statement regarding the specific incident, the platform has acted to remove the video recording of the stream from its service.

Why it matters

The death of Manuel Otto represents a profound loss for the gaming community, marking the end of a notable chapter in digital history for those who grew up with the browser-based social gaming revolution. Stick Run served as a bridge for millions of players into the world of online competition and shared experiences, cementing Otto’s legacy in the industry.

If you or someone you know is struggling, there are resources available. In the United States and Canada, you can reach the 998 Lifeline. In the United Kingdom, you may contact Samaritans. Those located in other international regions can find support and guidance via Find a Helpline or Befrienders.