Summary
- Ubisoft responds to allegations of abuse at a support studio.
- Brandoville Studio is accused of mental and physical abuse.
- Recent reports highlight the ongoing need for better worker protection in the gaming industry.
A recent YouTube video by People Make Games details alleged mental and physical abuse at Brandoville Studio, an external support studio that worked on Assassin's Creed Shadows. Ubisoft, while not directly involved, has responded, calling the allegations "deeply disturbing."
Abuse in the video game industry remains a persistent issue, with past reports detailing harassment, mental and physical abuse, and other serious problems. This latest report alleges a pattern of abusive behavior by Kwan Cherry Lai, the commissioner of the Brandoville development team and wife of the CEO. Allegations against Lai include mental and physical abuse of employee Christa Sydney, forced religious worship, severe sleep deprivation, and even forcing Sydney to self-harm while filming it.
Further allegations from other Brandoville employees include salary deductions under the guise of "help," and overworking a pregnant employee, resulting in premature birth and the subsequent death of the child.
Brandoville Studio's History and Fate
Founded in 2018 in Indonesia, Brandoville Studio closed in August 2024. Reports of abuse reportedly date back to 2019. During its operation, the studio contributed to major game releases including Age of Empires 4 and the upcoming 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 gaming industry continues to grapple with widespread reports of poor working conditions, abuse, and harassment, both internally and from online sources. Clearly, significant improvements are needed to protect employees from these egregious acts.
