CI Games CEO Blasts DEI: 'Dragon Age,' 'Concord' Are Examples of Industry Collapse


Marek Tyminski, CEO of CI Games, recently took to X (formerly Twitter), asserting that Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies are a primary driver behind the gaming industry's recent wave of layoffs and studio closures.

He argued that many companies, in their pursuit of political correctness, have overlooked efficiency and creative quality, leading to numerous project failures. Tyminski believes the industry is now "correcting course" to better respond to players' actual demands.

Tyminski pointed out that the DEI mindset has led many studios to prioritize "identity over skill," shifting hiring standards towards ideological alignment. He criticized this approach for weakening development teams' capabilities and professionalism, ultimately resulting in a series of failures, including notable commercial disappointments like "Dragon Age: The Veilguard" and "Concord."

"Players have woken up; they know they have the right to choose truly worthwhile games, and the industry is finally starting to listen," Tyminski wrote in his post. He emphasized that the success of titles like "Clair Obscur: Expedition 33" and "Lords of the Fallen" proves that outstanding content can be created without relying on DEI principles.

Tyminski's remarks sparked widespread debate, garnering support from some players and developers who believe the industry should return to its creative core. Conversely, others criticized the statements for oversimplifying DEI's value and overlooking its original intent to promote equal opportunity.

However, as numerous game companies face financial difficulties and studio closures, discussions within the industry about "what to change and what to preserve" are intensifying. Tyminski's comments have undoubtedly fueled this debate, and it remains to be seen whether the gaming industry will truly shift back to a "content-driven" development philosophy.




via: Tech4Gamers