Surgent Studios, known for Tales of Kenzera: Zau, is now grappling with significant layoffs following the game's disappointing performance. Technical Artist Jordan Smee recently shared on LinkedIn his search for new opportunities in technical a…
Surgent Studios, known for Tales of Kenzera: Zau, is now grappling with significant layoffs following the game's disappointing performance. Technical Artist Jordan Smee recently shared on LinkedIn his search for new opportunities in technical and environment art, reflecting the impact of these layoffs across the development team.
The studio's troubles coincide with broader industry challenges, where an increasing focus on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) messaging has alienated traditional gamer audiences. Linked to DEI consulting firm Sweet Baby Inc., Surgent Studios and its founder, Abubakar Salim, have faced criticism for integrating woke agendas into their projects. This association, often perceived as forced and ideological, has sparked backlash within the gaming community.
Despite attempts by Salim to defend the game's narrative and honor its personal origins, public reception and player engagement have been minimal. Steam data reveals a stark decline in player numbers since its release, underscoring the disconnect between studio intentions and gamer expectations.
The fallout from Tales of Kenzera: Zau serves as a cautionary tale for studios pursuing ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) funding and adhering to ideological agendas promoted by firms like Sweet Baby Inc. As the AAA gaming industry navigates these turbulent waters, the fate of studios embracing or rejecting these trends remains uncertain amidst ongoing layoffs and closures.
The industry's recent history highlights numerous instances where attempts to inject woke ideology into gaming narratives have backfired, fueling frustration among gamers and prompting calls for a return to creativity and gameplay excellence over ideological messaging.
#sweetbabyinc #sweetbabyincdetected #endkotaku #kotaku #gamingindustry #videogamefailures #wokeagenda #DEIingaming #SurgentStudios #TalesofKenzera #SweetBabyInc #gamergate2 #gameindustrywoes #AAAgameindustry
Join this channel to get access to..
