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Valve founder Gabe Newell became a subject of discussion due to an unusual personal hobby that tested his colleagues' patience over a multi-month period, according to Counter-Strike co-creator Minh Le during an interview with Indie Game Joe. Le described Newell as a polite and good person who is simultaneously eccentric and prone to intense, immersive fascinations.
The unusual situation began after Newell watched a documentary about Mongolian throat singing and became completely fascinated by the traditional guttural vocal style. Le recounted that the businessman began practicing the vocal technique extensively while walking through the office hallways every single day.
The daily vocal exercises quickly irritated the staff, prompting workers throughout the building to start closing their office doors to block out the noise. Le noted that this peculiar phase lasted for a duration of months before finally coming to an end.
Le remarked that Newell frequently develops deep, passionate interests due to his intense curiosity and desire for continuous learning. Aside from overseeing Valve, the entrepreneur is currently involved with marine research and neuroscience organizations.
