In recent years, companies have been working to improve representation in video games. It's a very complex and nuanced issue, as there are clearly people who oppose such initiatives. Unfortunately, some players take their disapproval to unfortunate levels.
Devs advocating inclusivity are targets of harassment
Through a post on their official website, the International Game Developers Association (IGDA), a non-profit organization supporting the rights of people working in game development and creation, expressed their concern about the potential rise of hate campaigns against creatives and developers supporting inclusion.
"We are deeply concerned about the growing harassment of historically marginalized developers and those who promote diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. These concerns arise from harassment campaigns similar to those experienced during the GamerGate period in the mid-2010s," the statement reads.
For those unfamiliar, GamerGate was a hate campaign that emerged in 2014 and was organized against women working in the gaming industry and feminist activists advocating for better representation.
The victims of this movement, including developer Zoe Quinn and controversial activist Anita Sarkeesian, received death threats, abuse, discriminatory messages, and hate comments. They were also targeted by very dangerous practices, such as doxing.
Now, industry figures fear the apparent rise of GamerGate 2.0, another campaign targeting studios and creatives who are allegedly "progressive" or "woke." Consultancy studio Sweet Baby Inc. is at the center of this controversy, as some claim it imposes political agendas in games and forces developers to implement "forced inclusivity."
At the beginning of the month, a user claimed that Sweet Baby Inc. allegedly forced the devs of Alan Wake II to turn Saga Anderson into a black woman. Kyle Rowley, the game's director, denied this theory.
"For too long, misogyny and intolerance towards diversity have caused irreparable harm to individuals and communities in the gaming world. The IGDA condemns the harassment campaigns that arose from GamerGate and no longer tolerates hate rhetoric within our industry," said the organization.
The International Game Developers Association explains that it is imperative for both fans and industry executives to take action to eradicate harassment. On its website, it published a 7-step plan, including measures such as supporting victims and advocating for change, in an attempt to reduce the impact of malicious campaigns.
"We call on all leaders of game studios and companies, especially those with access to more resources and influential platforms, to unite in a firm stance against harassment and in commitment to building a better future for the community," the text reads.
What do you think about this situation? Let us know in the comments.
Stay informed here, at LEVEL UP.
Comments
Best
New