Published , by TJ Denzer
Published , by TJ Denzer
The year 2024 was a rough one in gaming as far as staff and layoffs go, but it was also an abnormally challenging year for harassment. Square Enix is one of the companies that saw some of its products caught up in targeted campaigns of abuse and, as a result, has rolled out new policies regarding the safety of its employees and its response to customer harassment. Its new policies include taking legal action against perpetrators that continually threaten the safety and well-being of its staff.
Square Enix rolled out its new group harassment policies on its website this week, sharing new details about what it feels constitutes what it calls “group customer harassment,” as well as the actions it will take:
Square Enix’s new policies come as a likely result of targeted harassment campaigns in 2024, many of which were directed at Final Fantasy 14 and its newest expansion, Dawntrail. While many enjoyed the vast new world-building and cultures, as well as the promise of what’s ahead, there was also a bit of grumbling over certain elements, such as the character Wuk Lamat. Not only did this character have the most lines in the latest expansion’s campaign by far, but they were also voiced by trans voice actor Sena Bryer, who spoke out about a variety of abuse received since her role in the expansion was revealed.
With game debate regularly crossing into uglier arguments and harassment, Square Enix’s new policies are an interesting move, and one that should perhaps become more adopted throughout the industry. Stay tuned as we continue to follow this topic for further updates and details.