Summary
- Ubisoft responds to disturbing allegations of abuse at a support studio.
- Brandoville Studio, an external partner, faces accusations of severe mental and physical abuse.
- Recent incidents underscore the ongoing need for stronger worker protections within the gaming industry.
Ubisoft has issued a statement expressing deep concern regarding a recent video report detailing alleged abuse at Brandoville Studio, an external support studio that contributed to Assassin's Creed Shadows. While the abuse occurred outside of Ubisoft's direct operations, the company strongly condemns such actions.
The issue of workplace abuse in the video game industry is not new; past reports have documented harassment, physical and mental abuse, and other serious problems, including instances of bullying that tragically led to developers contemplating suicide. This latest report, from YouTube channel People Make Games, shines a light on a particularly egregious case.
The video focuses on Brandoville Studio in Indonesia, alleging extremely toxic and abusive behavior by Kwan Cherry Lai, the commissioner and wife of the CEO. Allegations include mental and physical abuse of employee Christa Sydney, forced religious practices, severe sleep deprivation, and even compelling Sydney to self-harm while recording it. Ubisoft, in a statement to Eurogamer, expressed its profound distress over these claims.
Further allegations have emerged from other Brandoville employees, including instances of salary withholding under the guise of "financial assistance" and the overworking of a pregnant employee, resulting in premature birth and the subsequent death of her child.
Brandoville Studio's History and Demise
Founded in 2018 and based in Indonesia, Brandoville Studio ceased operations in August 2024. Reports of abuse reportedly date back to 2019. During its operational years, the studio worked on several high-profile titles, including Age of Empires 4 and Assassin's Creed Shadows. Indonesian authorities are investigating these claims and reportedly seeking to question Kwan Cherry Lai, who is currently believed to be in Hong Kong.
The pursuit of justice for Sydney and other alleged victims remains uncertain. The persistent reports of poor working conditions, abuse, and harassment within the gaming industry, both domestically and internationally, highlight the urgent need for improved employee protection measures. This includes addressing not only internal abuse but also external threats, such as online death threats.
