In a decisive move to safeguard its development teams, Ubisoft has announced a robust “anti-harassment plan” aimed specifically at those working on the upcoming title Assassin’s Creed Shadows. This initiative stems from an environment of mounting criticism and harassment directed at the game and its creators, particularly following the game’s portrayal of Yasuke, a historical figure renowned for being a samurai of African descent.
The backlash against Assassin’s Creed Shadows has not only come from some segments of the gaming community but also from vocal content creators labeled as ‘anti-woke’ or ‘anti-Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).’ This controversy highlights a growing cultural divide within gaming, where historical representation and inclusivity in narratives are met with resistance from certain factions of the player base.
Concurrently, the collectibles manufacturer PureArts faced scrutiny for an insensitive design that depicted dual protagonists Yasuke and Naoe against a one-legged torii gate, which inadvertently referenced the 1945 bombing of Nagasaki during World War II. Such incidents underscore the sensitivity required in representing cultural histories within video games.
To combat the negative impact of such scrutiny, an anonymous Ubisoft employee revealed to French media outlet BFMTV the details of the newly implemented anti-harassment measures. Developers have now been advised to limit their presence on social media to reduce the risk of online harassment. “We’re encouraged not to disclose our affiliation with Ubisoft publically to safeguard against backlash,” stated the employee.
Making this initiative more profound, Ubisoft has partnered with Canada’s Communications Security Establishment to develop the protection plan. This collaboration includes monitoring online platforms where harassment may occur. "There’s a team that scans social media and acts swiftly in response to targeted attacks," the employee elaborated. This proactive approach aims to ensure that any harmful communications directed at Ubisoft employees are addressed rapidly and effectively.
The publisher’s commitment to the welfare of its staff was echoed in statements from a Ubisoft spokesperson, who emphasized that the safety of employees, particularly in online contexts, is paramount. The company has committed to providing resources that educate staff on navigating social media safely, alongside support mechanisms to fend off online harassment. This initiative reflects a growing recognition within the industry of the challenges faced by developers in an era of heightened social scrutiny.
As the release date for Assassin’s Creed Shadows draws nearer, the steps Ubisoft is taking serve as a critical reminder of the need for a supportive work environment in the gaming industry. As developers tackle the complexities of historical narratives and representation, their safety—both online and offline—must remain at the forefront of industry practices. This anti-harassment plan not only symbolizes a stand against hostility but also reinforces a cultural ethos of respect and inclusivity in the gaming community.
