In a proactive response to growing concerns about harassment surrounding the development of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Ubisoft has unveiled a comprehensive "anti-harassment plan" aimed at safeguarding its development team. This initiative is particularly significant in light of the backlash stemming from recent content decisions in the game, including the representation of historical figures like Yasuke, the first African samurai.
The turbulence began upon the game’s announcement, leading to a swelling discourse driven by some factions within the player community and certain content creators who have voiced strong opinions against what they term "anti-woke" or "anti-diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)" themes. The depiction of Yasuke has come under scrutiny, igniting a debate over representation and authenticity in storytelling.
Moreover, other controversial incidents have prompted further scrutiny of the game’s cultural sensitivity. A case in point is the backlash against collectible creator PureArts, which faced criticism for releasing a figurine that some deemed disrespectful to Japanese culture. This particular piece featured protagonists Naoe and Yasuke positioned in front of a one-legged torii gate—symbolically linked to the atomic bombing of Nagasaki. The figurine was quickly retracted in response to the backlash.
Amid this charged atmosphere, an anonymous Ubisoft employee reported to BFMTV that the newly implemented anti-harassment measures discourage developers from engaging on social media platforms. This guidance is intended to minimize the risks of online harassment, as employees can find themselves targeted simply for their association with the game or the company. The employee noted, "We’re advised not to post on social media that we work at Ubisoft to avoid harassment."
In collaboration with Canada’s Communications Security Establishment, Ubisoft’s strategy involves rigorous monitoring of discussions taking place across social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, and YouTube. A dedicated team is set to respond swiftly to any threats or instances of targeted harassment. Reports indicate that legal measures will be proactively pursued against proven cases of online abuse.
In their statement to PCGamesN, Ubisoft reiterated its commitment to prioritizing the safety of its employees, “Our top priority is the safety of our employees, including online.” They emphasized that social media practices are a matter of personal choice for team members, providing resources and support to navigate the challenges of online interactions while promoting well-being among their staff.
Ubisoft’s measures reflect a growing recognition of the need for enhanced protection in the gaming industry, particularly as the discourse surrounding representation and diversity heats up. By taking definitive steps to combat harassment, the company not only safeguards its workforce but also sets a precedent for accountability and respect in the gaming community at large.
