IGDA Calls On Developers To Condemn Russian Invasion, EA Delays Apex Legends Mobile Regional Launch
The International Game Developers Association (IGDA) has released an official statement voicing their support for Ukraine and urging the gaming development community to show solidarity and condemn Russia for their actions.
“The IGDA stands in solidarity with the people of Ukraine during this time of crisis as Russian president Vladimir Putin leads an unprovoked invasion of the sovereign nation and is deeply concerned for its citizens, including over 30,000 video game industry professionals and their families,” the IGDA said.
“The International Game Developers Association (IGDA) is deeply concerned for the safety and well-being of the people of Ukraine, as well as the game developers whose lives have been uprooted as a result of the unprovoked aggression by Russia’s President, Vladimir Putin.
The IGDA extends its support for Ukraine, its people, and the studios and game developers affected by this egregious breach of international law. As an international organization that values community and advocacy, we express our solidarity with Ukraine and our peers, friends, and colleagues within the Ukrainian game development community.
Today, the IGDA calls on the games industry to denounce the violent actions taken against Ukraine.
The game industry in Ukraine has grown exponentially over the last several years and has created a lasting impact on the global industry. The State of Ukrainian Industry reports over 400 game companies, branches, and teams make up Ukraine’s budding game development ecosystem, comprising 30,000+ employees. Studios include Ubisoft, Wargaming.net, GSC Game World, Frag Labs, Vostok Games, AB Games, and many more.
It is crucial for the game development community to come together and extend support for those impacted by the horrific violence from Russia’s military invasion. Accordingly, the IGDA will update this statement with new resources that we’ve identified and cultivated to support those affected by this warfare as they become available.”
Meanwhile, Electronic Arts and Respawn Entertainment have chosen to show their solidarity by delaying the limited regional launch of Apex Legends Mobile.
Due to current world events, we made the decision to shift the limited regional launch of Apex Legends Mobile. Our intention is to now release the game to participating countries on March 7.
Details: https://t.co/4oP35KekED
— Respawn (@Respawn) February 28, 2022
