In an era where gaming is becoming increasingly popular as a hobby, the importance of inclusivity and diversity in video games cannot be overstated. These elements not only attract new gamers but also have the power to take storytelling in entirely new directions. Sweet Baby Inc, a narrative development and consultation studio, stands at the forefront of promoting diversity in gaming.
The recent controversy surrounding Sweet Baby Inc has been brought to light by a group on Steam called “Sweet Baby Inc Detected,” which appears dedicated to boycotting games associated with the company. With over 200,000 followers on the curator page and more than 80,000 members, the group’s emergence has sparked questions about the nature of the controversy and the role of Sweet Baby Inc in it.
Sweet Baby Inc’s primary focus is assisting game developers in diversifying their characters, stories, and writing. While they have contributed to notable titles such as Alan Wake 2, Spider-Man 2, and God of War Ragnarök, they have also been involved in less well-received projects like Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League. However, it’s essential to note that the issues players have with these games cannot necessarily be attributed to Sweet Baby Inc’s involvement.
The controversy surrounding Sweet Baby Inc stems from the perception that the company is “forcing” diversity into games, a notion that some find objectionable. The “Sweet Baby Inc Detected” group on Steam, which emerged in late January, has been flagged for violating Steam’s code of conduct, with reports of casual sexism and alt-right rhetoric in their discussions. Attempts to address the group by Sweet Baby Inc employees have inadvertently drawn more attention to it, leading to increased follower counts and scrutiny.
Despite efforts to address the situation, the “Sweet Baby Inc Detected” page remains active on Steam, albeit with many discussion threads deleted or locked. It’s crucial to recognize that diversity in gaming enriches the medium and reflects the diverse experiences of players worldwide. Those who cannot appreciate a game solely because the protagonist does not fit a specific demographic are missing out on the rich tapestry of narratives that diverse representation brings to the gaming landscape.