Red Thread Games, the developer behind the recently launched game Dustborn, has taken a firm stance against the overwhelming negativity and hostility that has emerged since the game’s debut. Dustborn, an alternative history Americana road trip adventure, delves into themes of social justice and community, featuring a narrative centered around a group of marginalized individuals confronting oppressive forces. Despite receiving a “mostly positive” rating on Steam and a Metacritic score of 68, the studio has found itself at the center of a storm of criticism.
Addressing the Backlash
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Red Thread Games expressed disappointment over the nature of the discourse surrounding their work. “We expected Dustborn to spark conversation and debate, and looked forward to engaging with our players in a positive and constructive fashion,” the studio stated. However, they noted that this anticipated dialogue has been overshadowed by a “tidal wave of hate and abuse.”
Red Thread emphasized their commitment to fostering a respectful community, stating, “We welcome thoughtful feedback and respectful criticism. We embrace discussion and debate. But we have zero tolerance for hate speech, harassment, and threats of any kind.” The studio has pledged to remove individuals who engage in such behavior from their community.
Quantic Dream, the publisher of Dustborn, has shown solidarity with Red Thread Games by retweeting their statement and expressing “heartfelt support.” They reiterated their commitment to combating hate in all its forms and fostering communities rooted in understanding and respect.
In a subsequent statement to PC Gamer, Red Thread highlighted the game’s core message: “Dustborn emphasizes the power of words and the importance of building an inclusive society where everyone belongs.” They acknowledged that while they champion inclusion, there are boundaries, particularly regarding harmful behavior. “We always welcome constructive input; however, we do not tolerate the spreading of hate,” they affirmed.
As the studio continues to navigate this challenging landscape, they remain dedicated to creating a safe environment for all players. For those intrigued by Dustborn but hesitant to dive in fully, a demo is available on Steam, offering a glimpse into the game without the weight of external controversies.
