RuneScape has celebrated Delight Month for years now with in-game occasions. Not this yr although. Jagex, the developer behind the long-running MMORPG, canceled it. The choice reportedly got here from greater up the chain. New CEO Jon Bellamy advised PinkNews the staff needed to keep away from potential backlash and as a substitute concentrate on “what gamers actually need.”
Now, I don’t play RuneScape myself, so I don’t have a horse on this race. However I get that for lots of people — particularly LGBTQ+ gamers — RuneScape is greater than only a recreation. It’s a neighborhood. And occasions just like the annual Delight celebration could make folks really feel seen, welcomed, and secure. Eradicating that sends a message, whether or not the corporate meant it or not.
From what I’ve learn, most of this yr’s Delight content material was already completed and able to go too. So the cancellation wasn’t as a result of time constraints or lack of sources. One nameless worker advised PinkNews the choice felt like “catering to American conservatism.” And truthfully, it’s arduous to not see it that approach.
This concept that celebrating Delight is “too political” is irritating — it’s not a debate. It’s about visibility, and fundamental respect. Final yr’s Delight occasion even reportedly boosted income, and solely a tiny variety of gamers complained in accordance with assist tickets.
The silence this yr feels loud. It’s disappointing, and it’s telling. The true take a look at of a studio’s values isn’t when it’s straightforward to be inclusive. It’s when it’s arduous. When there’s stress, and even threat. However this yr, Jagex backed down. I ponder what this implies for the way forward for RuneScape.
