Sexual Misconduct Allegations Finds Its Way Into The Video Game Industry

Allegations of sexual abuse have been pouring out on social media in the past few days, and it has reached the bounds of the video game industry. Those accused aren't just any men – these are prominent men who work in and with video game companies, in what may spark the start of a #MeToo movement in the $150 billion industry.

According to Bloomberg, four women have directed accusations against critically acclaimed video game writer Chris Avellone. The writer has since been let go by a developer. Another personality, Omeed Dariani, chose to resign from his position with Online Performers Group after a woman accused him of sexual advances. Dariani worked with the talent agency as a CEO.This movement may have come a little too late, but it is welcome just the same. The video game industry, according to reports, has been known as an unwelcoming and hostile territory for women, but has escaped the scrutiny of mostly everyone. Now, a brewing #MeToo uprising has been making its presence felt, following the volume of revelations on social media and related avenues.

Giselle Rosman, founder and director of Melbourne Global Game Jam, spoke out about the silence in the abuses happening in the industry, CNET reported. The long time video game developer said many stories have gone 'unspoken' and that there are many more waiting to be told.

"We all have to hold each other accountable and actively work to call out abusive behavior and create work environments in which everyone is safe and can thrive," Rosman added.

It is shocking that the movement has managed to be hidden for so long, even as the #MeToo movement became louder in Hollywood in 2017. There have been other movements, to be sure; online protests such as Gamergate were born out of the years and years of harassment campaigns targeted mostly at women.

Companies have come out and said that they are looking into investigations within their ranks. Ubisoft Entertainment SA voiced out "deep concern" that these sexual misconduct allegations included some of their own employees. Sony subsidiary Insomniac Games, Inc. said that it was looking into allegations that a former employee had also done sexual misconduct while employed within the company.