IGDA Condemns Surge in Bullying of Marginalized Game Devs

The International Game Developers Association (IGDA) has voiced its concerns over the rising harassment targeting marginalized game developers and those advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the gaming industry. This alarming trend recalls the harassment experienced during the GamerGate controversy in the mid-2010s. The IGDA's statement emphatically condemns these actions, highlighting the importance of a safe, welcoming, and equitable environment in both the gaming community and the industry at large.

The statement mentions recent harassment campaigns against Montreal-based studio Sweet Baby Inc., known for their work in narrative development and promoting more empathetic storytelling and inclusivity in games. This studio, which had involvement in praised titles like Alan Wake 2, has faced hostility on platforms like X/Twitter and Steam, where harassers have targeted games associated with Sweet Baby to challenge the inclusion efforts.

Reaffirming its stance against bigotry and misogyny, the IGDA calls for a unified effort from industry leaders to combat harassment and support those targeted by it. The association plans to tackle various pressing topics, including harassment at the ongoing Game Developers Conference (GDC). As the world’s largest non-profit organization serving game developers, the IGDA works to support developers’ careers, organize events like the Global Game Jam, and nominate games for prestigious awards like the Game Developers Choice Awards.

Industry professionals are encouraged to speak out against harassment, provide comprehensive training on diversity, inclusion, and conflict resolution, and offer support to victims of harassment. Engaging with resources provided by organizations like the IGDA and fostering an environment of respect and inclusion within teams and communities are also crucial steps.

Background Information: Alan Wake 2 is a sequel to the critically acclaimed action-adventure game Alan Wake, developed by Remedy Entertainment. The original game, released in 2010, followed the story of a best-selling thriller novelist who tries to uncover the mystery behind his wife's disappearance during a vacation to the small fictional town of Bright Falls. Players eagerly anticipate Alan Wake 2, especially after the first game's strong narrative and cult following established it as a memorable title in the suspense genre.