unfortunately this is a big part of the gog experience and it has been for almost as along as gog exists. sadly some users still just don't want to accept this and confuse their arrogance+ignorance with integrity+wisdom.

I'm from the south so we'll have to use the nomenclature of slightly inbred second cousin twice removed.

In my experience, it was not such a big thing a few years ago, when I was active here. It happened, but it was rare. Now, every time I decide to check the forum, I see a lot of it. Lots of petty downvoting of posts that could actually be helpful to others and such things.
Wonder if I'll upset these people petty people who do these mass downovitings with this post ;) But really, it's also indicative of a greater problem. I know of several people who left GOG over a growing hostile atmosphere, and the downvoting brigades was a part of it (and that was when it was just getting started).

Rep ceases to matter after you've created an image for yourself. Everyone knows you already, so just say fuck em!

I keep offering him that "#1 Zeogold Fan" t-shirt if he tells me his size and address.
So far, he hasn't accepted.

He can be shy, just stay friendly and you're sure to eventually get him to dare show something more than anger and hate - like a stray cat. Of course, also like strays, there are others that continuously shout and beat at him, so I don't doubt it'll take a while.

You first,buttplug.

Should I initiate the group hug?

Just don't upset the guy, I'm trying to bring him closer, not scare him away.