The tide is turning in the industry. While in recent years it was believed that DEI topics could reach an even larger target group, this strategy alienated existing paying users. This led to some heated discussions, but is now becoming a marginal phenomenon.
The studio behind “Lords of the FallenCI Games has announced that it will not include any DEI elements (Diversity, equity, inclusionto integrate these elements into its games. According to the company, the focus will instead be on gameplay and commercial success. This decision is based on the observation that incorporating such elements potentially poses a high commercial risk.
No experiments with risks
In a recent event Investor meeting Ryan Hill, Global Marketing Director of CI Games, commented on the studio's stance. "We want to develop video games that put players at the center and offer an outstanding user experience," Hill emphasized that the studio focuses on themes and characters specifically designed for core and adjacent target groups.
Hill pointed out that some modern video games are increasingly incorporating social and political agendas into their narratives. However, the player reaction is not always positive. According to Hill, the lower-than-expected sales figures of some such games indicate that many players tend to reject this content. Therefore, CI Games intends to ensure that the focus in the development of future titles remains on entertainment, gameplay depth, and market success.
CI Games' strategy reflects a conservative stance in an increasingly polarized gaming landscape. While some studios consciously prioritize diversity and inclusion, CI Games considers this an unnecessary compromise when it comes to player satisfaction and commercial success. Instead, the studio focuses on proven elements that resonate with its target audiences.
Arrowhead, the developers of Helldivers, took a similar approach to this issue. positioned, who believe that developers should avoid DEI themes if they are artificially imposed or only included because it is currently trendy.
Comprehensive support planned even in 2025
Aside from this controversial decision, "Lords of the Fallen" remains a central part of CI Games' plans. The game, released in 2023, will continue to be improved through updates until version 2.0 is reached. At the same time... The studio is working on a sequel, whose extensive playtests are planned for 2025.
The franchise has built a solid fan base with its dark fantasy atmosphere and challenging gameplay. Players can therefore trust that CI Games will continue to focus on quality and player-centricity in the future.
"Lords of the Fallen" is currently available for PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S. Whether CI Games' stance will be well-received by players remains to be seen – however, it's clear they're taking a firm course that should be welcomed by their core player base.
I think the reactions online are awesome.
At Resetera, they all gasp and do exactly what they accuse the anti-wokes of (i.e., boycott developers, insult developers, etc.).
Glorious.
Apart from that: DEI is not inherently bad, it just needs to be properly implemented – and adapted to real life.
No, there isn't a trans person on every corner. No, you don't go around flaunting your sexuality. No, the world wasn't diverse in the Middle Ages. And no, the majority is still against gender-inclusive language.
A decision I welcome. It makes LotF2 much more interesting to me.