CI Games, the publisher of the “Lords of the Fallen” (2023) and “Sniper: Ghost Warrior” series, discusses DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion) that is hotly discussed in the gaming circle The topic stated that their own games will not incorporate DEI elements because the business risks are too great.
Contrary to Ubisoft’s efforts to promote DEI games, there is an “anti-DEI” trend in the gaming circle.
Faced with players’ calls to reject DEI elements, Johan Pilestedt, game director (former CEO) of Arrowhead Game Studios, the developer of “Battlefield II”, said earlier this year, “If DEI cannot bring positive effects to the game experience, then it is a negative element. Games should be purely about beautiful moments.”
Although Pilestedt frequently interacts with the community and his comments do not represent the entire studio, CI Games appears to take the same stance as Pilestedt externally.
According to Polish media Strefa Inwestorów, during an investor conference call on January 8 this year, CI Games shareholders asked for the official’s views on DEI. Ryan Hill, CI Games’ global brand and marketing director, responded that the team has always been committed to making “player-oriented” products. “Core” games focus on providing players with an excellent gaming experience and designing exciting works and characters that attract surrounding audiences.
“While some recent games have taken the opportunity to incorporate social or political issues into their gaming experiences, it’s clear that many players don’t appreciate this approach. This has led to the past year seeing some high-profile games perform poorly at launch .
Ryan said that in view of this, CI Games’ games will always aim to “maximize player fun and commercial success.” After evaluating the high risks that may be brought by adding DEI elements, “we will not integrate any in future games.” social or political intent.”
CI Games told shareholders that it would focus on allowing players to enjoy the game and achieve commercial success. Its CEO Marek Tyminski further confirmed his position on It became a hot topic in the comments section, and the tweet attracted more than 20,000 likes.
Exactly. No, we will not. https://t.co/fhVQ7eyjds
— Marek Tyminski (@tyminski_marek) January 10, 2025
On the other hand, Ryan Hill revealed that “Fallen Lord” will continue to be updated until 2025 and version 2.0 will be launched. The company plans to launch three new games in the next few years, including the sequel to “Fallen Lord” and “Sniper King” The new game “Sniper Ghost Warrior Evolved”, and a new action RPG called Project H.
The sequel to “Lord of the Fallen” is tentatively named “Project 3”. It has now entered the full development stage, with more than 200 developers participating. The game is expected to be officially released in 2026, and promotion activities will start within this year.