Science Draws the Line: 'Black Myth: Wukong' Bans Politics and Feminism in Game Coverage.
Game Science, the developer behind the very highly anticipated 'Black Myth: Wukong', has issued a 'modern' directive to content creators, explicitly banning the inclusion of political messages and what they term "feminist propaganda" in their game-related content.
This policy was highlighted by legal analyst Andrew Esquire, known online as The Legal Mindset, who shared a screenshot of the content agreement terms given to creators provided with game access:
The stipulations are clear - barring any creators from using offensive language or humor, directly attacking other influencers or players, and engaging in discussions that might trigger negative discourse. It includes a ban on topics like politics, violence, nudity, and notably... any content that could be construed as feminist propaganda.
The agreement also extends to avoiding discussions on sensitive topics like COVID-19 or any discourse related to China’s gaming industry policies. While this sounds great on the surface, and a giant FU to the nose-ring mafia 'journos', a part of me would prefer no stipulations, and let the trash simply take itself out. People are waking up. We want to see what they really think... But at the same time - I get it. The development comes amidst accusations from various media outlets, including IGN and The Guardian, which have criticized the cultural and professional conduct at Game Science.
Reports from IGN’s Rebekah Valentine and Khee Hoon Chan earlier this year accused the studio of harboring a sexist culture, highlighting problematic social media posts and recruitment posters dating back to 2015. These activists posing as journalists discussed how it featured derogatory and sexually suggestive content, framing the studio's environment in a terrible light... But the truth was, they mistranslated it on purpose. Allegedly because Game Science wouldn't sign on with Sweet Baby Inc. or another consultancy firm.
Despite these nose-ring mafia-led accusations, Game Science has gone the professional route, and chosen not to engage directly with the claims, focusing instead on their upcoming game releases and maintaining a stringent policy on content creation. This stance underlines a much broader intent to control the narrative surrounding their games, emphasizing a gameplay-first approach devoid of external socio-political discussions. What a wild approach. Focusing on the actual game they're making... Imagine my shock that the nose-ring mafia has their panties in such a bunch.
Black Myth: Wukong has nonetheless continued to garner significant attention, topping Steam wishlist charts and getting a ton of positive press from influencers. It's showing a strong continued interest from the gaming community as release approaches. The policies set by Game Science may spark debates about freedom of expression versus the desire for non-politicized entertainment spaces... But at the end of the day, that's what we're at with an industry of 'professionals' in complete shambles.
~ Smash
Initial Source/credit: ThatParkPlace.com and John Trent reporting.