My major difficulty in online gaming or whatever is when the girl I'm sarging begins to talk about how crap her life has gotten, or her problems, etc. This seems to happen to me occasionally, even after making sure I've kept the conversation as C&F and fun as possible. I don't want to glance over it or ignore it because I might come across as a heartless bastard so what's the solution in this case? How are you meant to respond in these situations?

Most people would tell you to not talk about the girl's problems. The thinking is that if listen then you will become the friend that she talks to her problems with as she is out finding other guys to go out with. Let's say you become the valuable friend she can talk all of her problems out with, she isn't going to want to lose that sounding board. IF she dates you, you will know many of her problems and can use that against her. If you get too close that way, you may end up in the friend zone. Let's say her beloved dog just died. Say something like "Oh that's so sad. I definitely don't want you sad and talking about that can only make you more sad. So let's talk of fun things and happy things." I think that usually works if you can find things to say to follow it up with.

Personally, I do go against the advice when it comes to sad things in the girl's life. If you can't help but do the same, I do have some advice. You have to remain focused on the fact that you may be interested and have to show interest and attraction. If you put that away, you can quickly end up in the friend zone. Sometimes for me, I can't help but try to help someone in need. It can be more important than any goals I have. I have talked to people that were borderline suicidal and going through a tough patch. It is just right to listen a little bit during such times and more important for that moment than getting laid. To me it is anyhow. I think though that sad story time from a girl can lead to conversation though. She's less likely to walk away during that. If you listen, keep it light, and make it show that you want more than friendship/would want to be physical, usually you won't hear "LJBF". If things get too heavy, you can still always say "let's talk of happier things". That's basically the ace card to play when in trouble. Your personality and conscience will dictate what's best for you. But if you can get away with it, I'd say to to try the first method. It's most recognized and simpler really.

Ok thanks for the advice man. I would always have just listened and tried to help as I am the same and hate seeing people hurt but I don't want to fall into the friend zone as I would have been prone to as an AFC... Yeah I think judging the situation is the best way to go and try and always keep it as light as I can when possible or just project sexual intent even while consoling... Cheers!