Is Sony Leaving Controversy Behind? Sweet Baby Inc. Split Rumor Spreads
Are we seeing a shift at PlayStation? One recent rumor is making waves in the gaming world. Speculations suggest that Sony might be severing ties with Sweet Baby Inc. This consulting firm has been at the center of a heated controversy concerning diversity and representation in video games.
Player Burnout with Social Agendas
For a while, a rank of players have grumbled with increasing ferocity about perceived heavy-handed social and political commentary in games. This temper has occasionally burst into public criticism. It seems murmurs now are suggesting that industry leaders are listening.
Sweet Baby Inc.: The Fount of the Storm?
Sweet Baby Inc. has found themselves in the middle of this controversy. Their desire to promote inclusivity and diversity in representation has, according to critics, led to forced or harmful decisions to established lore in certain projects. A cited example is Angrboda in God of War: Ragnarok. The reimagining of this character caused controversy. Some fans believed it veered too far from classic Norse mythology for modern sensibilities.
The Rumor Mill Churns: Contracts Cancelled?
Based on an insider tip from MasteroftheTDS, the rumor is that Sony has begun distancing itself from Sweet Baby Inc. The rumor conjectures that all upcoming God of War games, and the entire PlayStation brand, will supposedly be developed without this consultancy firm's advice. This would be significant if happening. It would be a potentially major course change by Sony in response to player criticism.
Not So Fast: Evidence to the Contrary?
It's worth pointing out that this is still firmly in the rumor column. No comment has been forthcoming from Sony. There are counterarguments. For instance, recent news of Naughty Dog's Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet has itself been subject to online criticism. The protagonist's design, in the announcement trailer, has gained dislikes and negative comments. This is precisely for the kind of aesthetic choices Sweet Baby Inc. is typically famous for.
Wait and See: The Future is Unwritten
The development cycle for Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet is likely lengthy. If rumors of Sony's shift are correct, there's theoretically still room for course correction, even on games in production. Ultimately, we are in a "wait and see" situation. Is Sony truly shifting focus? Or is this wishful thinking from a segment of the fanbase? Only time, and future game announcements, will truly know.
Disclaimer: This is based on unverified rumors and speculation. Sony's official information is awaited.
