CI Games Rejects DEI Initiatives, Vows to Keep Politics Out of Gaming
“Our games are crafted to enhance player satisfaction and commercial prosperity.”
Lords of the Fallen publisher CI Games has stated it will not “incorporate social or political agendas” into its games due to the “significant risk it may pose.”
According to Strefa Inwestorów (thanks to PC Gamer), global marketing director Ryan Hill informed investors that the studio aims to “focus on providing an exceptional user experience with engaging themes and characters designed specifically for core and related audiences” after noticing “a number of high-profile releases performed poorly commercially over the last year” due to what he perceived as “social or political agendas.”
“We are dedicated to creating player-centric video games that prioritize an outstanding user experience with engaging themes and characters tailored for core and related audiences,” Hill stated when questioned about the studio’s stance on “DEI [diversity, equity, and inclusion – often referred to as EDI in the UK] in gaming.”
“While some video games have recently chosen to integrate social or political agendas into their narratives, it is clear that many players do not appreciate this, and consequently, we have witnessed a variety of high-profile releases underperforming commercially over the past year alone.”
“Our games will consistently be designed to enhance player enjoyment and commercial success; thus, we will refrain from incorporating any social or political elements into these experiences moving forward, having recognized the considerable risks involved.”
Hill did not elaborate on his interpretation of “social or political elements,” nor did he clarify what “significant risk” entails.