For the record I feel like saying "Dreadwolf is going to suck because they laid off Mary Kirby" is like... really dramatically missing the point of what's going on here.

The next game has been in alpha for nearly a year now. Kirby's work on the game as a writer was probably mostly finished. Which does not make this better. If anything, it makes it worse.

The layoffs aren't terrible news because a game we're looking forward to might be worse because of them. They're terrible news because people who have devoted years of blood, sweat, and tears to making the game good (including the person who wrote one of the two characters on which they've been hanging the entire marketing campaign for said game thus far) have been axed now that the company has decided it can probably get by without them.

The quality of the game when it finally comes out is irrelevant here. If it's amazing, it won't make this any better, and if it's awful, it won't make it any worse. What matters is the people whose labor made it exist at all are profoundly undervalued, the industry as a whole is broken and frankly abusive, and I wish everyone in it some good labor organizing.

It’s tragic to me that the video games industry could be unfathomably successful and provide so many jobs if CEOs took a pay cut and executives stopped pushing for multimillion dollar budgeted hyper realistic 400 gameplay-hour 10 year dev cycle games. No devs ever need to be fired for a higher ups mistakes. Devs need to start unionizing or do something else to execs that if I said would probably get me banned.

It’s very clear that the AAA industry is in a death spiral, and as much as I would love to say “this means devs can find success in the indie space!” That just isn’t gonna happen on a large scale because indie companies cannot afford to give jobs to the mass swathes of AAA devs being laid off. And those AAA devs in general do not make enough money to just go found their own studio and take a risk developing a game with no income for years.

Before Israel’s war in Gaza, Palestinian programmer Doaa Ghandour was working on Palestine Skating Game’s grind rails. Any skater — be that skateboarding or roller skating — knows rails are essential to street-style skating. In Palestine Skating Game, these grind rails weave through the West Bank, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater-style, for use as you spray graffiti on the Israeli-built separation wall. It’s easy to see the appeal of Palestine Skating Game in its early prototype on Itch.io: The futuristic Bethlehem is made all the more colorful with paint splatters and graffiti, set to what the team describes as “Arabic electronic music.” And it’s designed to be enticing: “The idea is that if you immerse Westerners in that kind of art and music from the region, you’ll start to actually see people from the region as human beings,” Palestine Skating Game’s current project lead told Aftermath in November.

Palestine Skating Game has been in development for roughly two and a half years. The inspiration initially hit after the project lead, who was granted anonymity by Polygon, saw We Are Lady Parts, a TV show about an all-women Muslim punk band. Development has changed since then — it had to. “We have to acknowledge the existence of a lot more suffering,” the project lead told Polygon. “We are having to do the thing where we had one creative vision for the project, and now we have to figure out how that changes with respect to the events unfolding.” Israel’s war in Gaza is entering its fourth month. Nearly 28,000 people have been killed in Gaza, 388 in the occupied West Bank, and 1,139 in Israel, according to Al Jazeera. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is currently hearing a genocide case against Israel, wherein it argues that “the acts and omissions by Israel complained of by South Africa are genocidal in character because they are intended to bring about the destruction of a substantial part of the Palestinian national, racial and ethnical group,” as reported by Vox. Israel denies the accusation, saying its attacks are justified as a response to Hamas’ terrorist attack in Israel on Oct. 7, where roughly 1,200 people were killed. “Israeli Occupation Forces have cut off all medical supplies, as well as water and food, from Palestinians in Gaza, amidst the continued carpet bombing and genocide. It has left our friends to navigate the most severe humanitarian crisis of our time,” the fundraiser reads. Palestine Skating Game has been in development for roughly two and a half years. The inspiration initially hit after the project lead, who was granted anonymity by Polygon, saw We Are Lady Parts, a TV show about an all-women Muslim punk band. Development has changed since then — it had to. “We have to acknowledge the existence of a lot more suffering,” the project lead told Polygon. “We are having to do the thing where we had one creative vision for the project, and now we have to figure out how that changes with respect to the events unfolding.” The project lead said the team, which is Ghandour, writer Hadeel, and himself with four other developers and volunteers, want to make it easy for people — even those unfamiliar with the conflict — to see what’s happening in Gaza. “We want to make it easier for people to see, Oh, here’s how the West Bank has been slowly eaten up and balkanized,” he said. “We also just want it to be something that people want to share with their friends. There should be so many fucking cool things in this game that people will immediately want to say, ‘Hey, you’ve got to see this.’” The Palestine Skating Game team — the core group, four paid developers, and roughly 15 volunteer developers — is working on a full vertical slice, or a polished, short demo, of the game. They’re also hoping to run a Kickstarter, GoFundMe campaign, or other investment to fund more development.

It's so fucked up seeing the industry I've worked in for years now simultaneously post astronomical profit and announcements of "cost-saving layoffs"

All that because our grandmas are likely not interested in picking up the next world War simulator or whatever but CEOs and shareholders are convinced that continuous increase of profit is a realistic goal, so if profit are huge but the same as the previous year (or in line with inflation) because understandably your niece's newborn does not want to play "you want me to kill this guy for you, I'll kill this guy for you" simulator, it's considered a failure.

Despite huge profit for the company, many of my colleagues went without a raise last year (or with raises below inflation) because we didn't reach a goal which was set using data from the previous years when many ppl had increased free time due to covid spread prevention measures. (Also because a lot of morally correct ppl do not want to buy games from companies that cover up workplace harassment, some of them had been long time players of said companies' games) By some miracle I got a decent raise. I doubt I'll be so lucky this year.

The studio I work has so far been relatively safe. We lost a lot of administrative staff at the end of last year, but not in 2024 yet as far as I'm aware. And my parents have convinced themselves that we're probably safe, but how am I suppose to feel safe when the industry I poured my life into is refusing to pay us properly due to bad goal setting and indiscriminately getting rid of us also due to mad goal setting, despite making fucking bank.

If you have friends in the game industry, check on them, see if their alright whether or not we've lost our jobs, it's fucking terrifying.

If you are in the game industry

if you are unionised, check with your reps about getting increased protections, increased severance packages for layoffs and better raises in your next negotiation period.

If you aren't unionised, the best time to find if there is a campaign for a union is yesterday, but now will do. If no campaign currently exists, find colleagues who also understands the importance of unions and start one. A union might not be able to stop mass layoffs, but with better pay and conditions negotiated as a unit, weathering the storm can be made so much easier.

SAG-AFTRA union members have voted yes to authorize a video game strike. It did so with a 98.72% vote in favor of authorizing a strike on the Interactive Media Agreement that covers its members' work in the games industry. In total, 34,687 members cast ballots, which represents 27.47% of eligible voters, SAG-AFTRA writes in a press release.  This vote does not mean SAG-AFTRA is striking, but gives the union leverage in its ongoing negotiations and, if needed, allows the union to begin a strike immediately. The union hopes this strike authorization will work as added leverage, compelling the companies it is bargaining with "to make significant movement on critical issues where we are still far apart."

LGBTQIA+ Representation in Video Games [2024]

In recent years, the video game industry has made significant strides toward inclusivity and representation, but one area that still demands attention is LGBTQIA+ representation. As discussions surrounding diversity in gaming continue gaining traction, it's becoming increasingly evident that the inclusion of LGBTQIA+ characters and narratives isn't just a matter of political correctness - it's essential for the industry's growth and cultural impact. Let's delve into why this representation matters and the profound effects it can have on players and the gaming landscape.

Increased LGBTQIA+ representation in the video game industry is crucial for several reasons. First, it​ fosters inclusivity and diversity, creating a more welcoming environment for players of all sexual orientations and gender identities. When individuals see characters in games that reflect their own identities or experiences, it can lead to a stronger sense of connection and validation within the gaming community. Secondly, increased representation in video games helps combat harmful stereotypes and prejudices by offering nuanced portrayals of diverse identities. By featuring more characters in a variety of roles and contexts, games can challenge societal norms and promote acceptance and understanding.

Furthermore, including LGBTQIA+ characters and narratives in video games enriches storytelling possibilities. It allows developers to explore unique perspectives and themes that may resonate with players on a deeper level. This not only enhances the overall quality of gaming experiences but also contributes to the cultural significance of the medium. Additionally, from a business standpoint, catering to diverse audiences can be financially beneficial for game developers and publishers. By acknowledging and addressing the interests and needs of LGBTQIA+ gamers, companies can tap into a sizable market that has often been overlooked in the past.

Using recent examples of video games with positive LGBTQIA+ representation, take, for instance, "The Last of Us Part II," a critically acclaimed title that prominently features LGBTQIA+ characters like Ellie and Dina. Their relationship serves as a central aspect of the game's narrative, showcasing a complex and authentic portrayal of love and identity within a post-apocalyptic world.

Another notable example is "Undertale" by Toby Fox, which includes LGBTQIA+ characters such as Alphys and Undyne. Their storyline unfolds organically throughout the game, offering players a glimpse into their struggles and triumphs as they navigate the challenges of friendship and self-acceptance.

Similarly, "Life is Strange" by Dontnod Entertainment explores themes of friendship, love, and identity through its protagonist, Max Caulfield, and her best friend, Chloe Price. The game offers players choices that can affect the course of their relationship, allowing for personal exploration and reflection.

"Dragon Age: Inquisition" by BioWare is also renowned for its diverse cast of characters, including LGBTQIA+ romance options like Dorian Pavus and Sera. These characters not only contribute to the game's rich lore but also provide players with opportunities to explore different facets of identity and relationships within a fantasy setting.

The introduction of Kung Jin, an openly gay character, in one of the latest Mortal Kombat installations, marked a big step forward in LGBTQIA+ representation within the gaming industry.

His storyline not only showcases his prowess in combat but also delves into his personal journey of self-discovery and acceptance. By integrating Kung Jin's sexual orientation into his character arc, Mortal Kombat not only acknowledges the existence of LGBTQIA+ individuals within its universe but also provides a platform for meaningful storytelling and representation. This milestone underscores the series' commitment to inclusivity and highlights the importance of diverse representation in mainstream gaming. [1]

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"Catering to an LGBTQ audience would be good for companies, GLAAD argued, citing that queer gamers are 1.4 times more likely to buy or play a game with a character that matches their gender, 29% of all gamers wish there were more prominent LGBTQ storylines in games and 70% of LGBTQ gamers (as well as 46% of non-LGBTQ gamers) are less likely to buy a game if it contains harmful tropes or stereotypes about the gay or transgender community." [2]

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By portraying diverse characters with multifaceted identities and experiences, these games not only validate the experiences of LGBTQIA+ players but also provide a platform for discussing mental health in a safe and supportive environment. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it's essential to recognize the power of representation in addressing mental health issues and promoting positive change within the gaming community.

According to a study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, approximately 63% of gamers reported that playing video games helped them to connect with friends and family, contributing positively to their mental well-being. When members of the LGBTQIA+ community feel included, video games have a profoundly positive impact on mental health.

With that said, increasing LGBTQIA+ representation is essential for fostering inclusivity, challenging stereotypes, enriching storytelling, and tapping into a diverse market. By embracing diversity and representing a wide range of identities, games have the potential to become more meaningful and impactful for players around the world.

Citations

Mortal Kombat Makes History With Its First Gay Character. (2015, April 17). HuffPost. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/mortal-kombat-gay-kung-jin_n_7087054

2. Roeloffs, M. W. (n.d.). New Study Shows More Gamers Than Ever Identify As LGBTQ, But Representation Lags Behind. Forbes. Retrieved March 7, 2024, from https://www.forbes.com/sites/maryroeloffs/2024/02/13/new-study-shows-more-gamers-than-ever-identify-as-lgbtq-but-representation-lags-behind/?sh=2eb3d9a57cf6

MY COWORKER IS AT THE WHITE HOUSE TO DISCUSS WORKERS' RIGHTS TODAY 🙌💪🎉✨

I'm so proud of our union and all the people in it! 💙

I've had people on YouTube and Twitter try to mock me by calling me "Goodbye Volcano High's strongest soldier".

But you know what? Going to bat for KO_OP, a worker cooperative queer indie studio with 4-day work weeks? And they avoid crunch and ensure the mental health of their employees? I'll gladly do so.

Especially since I've seen what "gamers" will defend.

$70 games that are broken at launch and teeming with microtransactions, DLC, and gambling mechanics. Games that take up over 100GB of hard drive space. Executives who crunch their employees to dust and allow rampant sexual abuse and wage theft, followed by mass layoffs to preserve profit margins and corporate bonuses. Cultures of racism, misogyny, and queerphobia, both in the workplace and in the gamer community. AI and NFTs being incorporated into game development. Lack of accessibility for players with disabilities. "Live service" games touted as being supported for years only to die in months. Decades of games no longer being available except through piracy. The lies and broken promises. The list goes on. There's so much of all of it everywhere, and it seems to get worse by the year.

Yet for gamers, all of those are secondary issues, if at all. They're more concerned if the video game girls are sexy or not. Or if a reviewer gave the "right" score for their golden goose game. Or if a game has - heaven forbid - an easy mode. And when their games are awful, their go-to blame is towards the "woke", the "SJWs", the "game journos". They keep financially supporting the things that are ruining games then blame marginalized people and reviewers for games being bad.

So yeah, screw it, I'll gladly throw my support towards an indie studio that represents what I want to see more of in the game industry. Come at me.

If there are other studios you want to show support for that you think are doing the right things too, feel free to share in the replies and reblogs.

Every now and then I think about the amazing artistic power and potential of games like Dishonored and Disco Elysium and rekindle just an incredible hatred for the corporate managerial class and how they will just destroy artists & studios (and their chance to develop their artistic potential) for incredibly shortsighted & short term profit.

Business-wise, it’s almost always a fatal mistake in the long term, but on a human level it is just profoundly cruel, cynical and callous. Capitalist incentives lead to countless acts of violence and destruction, but the way the managerial class of the entertainment industry shows contempt for the people that actually create their source of revenue will never cease to infuriate me.

This is why the entire economic system needs to be overhauled. It’s the incentive structures themselves that are irreparable. The growth model, the profit motive and the existence of shareholders combined invariably generate systems where the most destructive option will be seen as the most profitable one. Capitalism is a death cult. It must be destroyed or it will destroy everything.

So we all know Foamstars, aka Splatwatch, is so obviously going to be ass. I haven't even finished the trailer and I am appalled. However, I would like to share with you one minor nitpick in particular that I guarantee will make you suffer. Ready?

At 1:17 in the trailer, a billboard is visible in the background. It looks like this (circle added for clarity).

That is the name of the city the game takes place in. Bath Vegas. Say it out loud, it does not work at all. Upon seeing this, I was upset, but literal seconds later I thought:

Wash Vegas.

IT WAS RIGHT THERE. TEN SECONDS OF THOUGHT. I am so angry. The minds behind Balan WonderlandWORLD produce yet another banger. Bath Vegas. That is the name of the city in this game. This game that is already nothing but a hodgepodge of plagirized ideas held together with generic plasticky anime graphics. This game produced by the bright minds behind Symbiogenesis and Balan Wonderworld.

Square Enix needs to be stopped. We have reached levels of out-of-touch, creatively bankrupt executive slop that shouldn't be possible. Bath Vegas got put into this slick, million-dollar trailer and nobody put in the seconds of thought to realize it was fucking stupid. My heart goes out to the poor animators who had to try to defibrilate this abomination. I wish them a speedy recovery.

SAG-AFTRA & Studios Could Meet Within Days

Deadline Sept 26, 2023

EXCLUSIVE: (Updated with SAG-AFTRA statement) As the WGA leadership and members move forward on the scribes’ tentative agreement with the studios and streamers, the 160,000-strong actors union could be sitting down with the AMPTP within days.

Riding the momentum that has hit Hollywood since the WGA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers struck a deal on September 24, SAG-AFTRA leaders have penciled in meetings with the Carol Lombardini-led group by the end of next week, we hear. 

As always in labor relations, the situation is fluid, and no negotiation has truly started until all participants are seated at the bargaining table. “We have no confirmed dates scheduled and there will not be meetings with the AMPTP this week,” a SAG-AFTRA spokesperson said Tuesday. “When we do have dates confirmed, we will inform our members. No one should rely on speculation.”

The AMPTP did not respond to Deadline’s requests for comment on the potential meetings.

The actors union has been on strike since July 14, when its members joined the WGA on the picket lines, creating Hollywood’s first joint strike since the Kennedy administration. The writers have suspended picketing and are awaiting details about their deal, which could come today or tomorrow. 

WGA leaders on both coasts are scheduled to vote today on whether to send the tentative agreement to the general membership for ratification. If that occurs as expected, a vote by the nearly 12,000 members of the guild could come within several days, and a “yes” from them would end the WGA strike.

But the actors remain on the picket lines for now as both unions have pledged and shown solidarity with each other throughout the current labor strife. 

While the WGA and SAG-AFTRA share similar concerns about AI, residuals and data transparency, to name a few, the actors union has some individual concerns that need to be addressed in its contract talks.

SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher has been vocal and passionate in her rhetoric, saying, among other things, that “the AMPTP’s maniacal corporate culture for greed must stop.”Meanwhile, the union’s National Executive Director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland has made many public appearances, including at the Toronto Film Festival, to talk up his side’s point of view.

Meanwhile, SAG-AFTRA members voted unanimously on Monday to authorize a strike against the video game industry, citing concerns including “the exploitative uses of AI and lagging wages.” 

The union’s Chief Contracts Officer Ray Rodriguez said: “This strike authorization makes an emphatic statement that we must reach an agreement that will fairly compensate these talented performers, provide common-sense safety measures, and allow them to work with dignity. Our members’ livelihoods depend on it.”

David Robb and Erik Pedersen contributed to this report.

To be completely honest, it’s about time for something like this to happen.

by Michael McWhertor and Nicole Carpenter Workers at Sega of America voted Tuesday to ratify their first collectively-bargained contract with the U.S. arm of the video game company, granting new protections and raises for about 150 full-time and temporary employees. Workers in the union, known as Allied Employees Guild Improving Sega (AEGIS), won important concessions from Sega of America as part of the contract, including base-building raises for all employees, layoff protections, and a commitment to crediting people on games they’ve worked on, including early QA testers. It also affords employees in the union other protections, including letting workers pursue creative work in addition to their work at Sega and a guaranteed continuation of hybrid work. Workers will also receive just cause protections, joining Tender Claws workers in being the only ones in the North American video game industry to have them, organizers said. In the state of California, where Sega of America’s offices are located, workers are employed at will — meaning employers can terminate employees for almost any reason, provided that reason is not unlawful. These protections mean employers must follow a series of strict guidelines before getting rid of a worker, whether through firing or other means. Organizers for the union say contact negotiations between AEGIS-CWA and Sega of America spanned six months. [...] Workers at the games studio and publisher announced their intent to unionize in April 2023. The union partnered with the Communications Workers of America and voted to officially form a union the following July. AEGIS-CWA now represents employees across multiple departments at Sega of America’s headquarters in Burbank and its Irvine campus. Union employees work in a variety of roles, including brand marketing, localization, marketing services, product development, sales, and quality assurance.

KO_OP is hiring 3D artists, animators and character designers for upcoming game!!

$83,040 CAD/yr with 4-day work weeks, 25 days annual paid vacation, unlimited sick and personal days, and benefits! Applications close January 24th: https://ko-opmode.applytojobs.ca

SAG-AFTRA members have voted to authorize a strike against the video game industry. The vote was 98.32% in favor of the strike authorization against 10 major video game companies, with 34,687 members casting ballots, representing 27.47% of eligible voters. While the authorization does not guarantee a work stoppage will occur, the vote permits union negotiators to call for a strike for a new Interactive Media Agreement if necessary.