As the Russian invasion of Ukraine persists, Ukraine's Vice Prime Minister has asked esports platforms and game companies like PlayStation and Xbox to temporarily block Russian accounts. The military attack began on February 24 following weeks of tension, and the invasion still continues despite Ukrainian resistance and worldwide sanctions against Russia. Many within the gaming industry are protesting the invasion, with Battlefield 2o42 removing a Russian helicopter reward as a show of solidarity with Ukraine.
As most of the world rallies in support of Ukraine, key figures within the video game industry are doing their part to support the Eastern European country. This aid has come in the form of donations to Ukraine as a whole, as well as specific support for game developers within the country. Polish developer 11 bit studios, creator of the somber anti-war survival title This War of Mine, recently donated all proceeds from the title to the Ukrainian Red Cross. Gaming juggernaut Ubisoft, meanwhile, has offered additional funds to Ukrainian employees to aid in relocation efforts. A $242K Ukraine aid donation from CD Projekt Red, developer of the Witcher series and Cyberpunk 2077, has also helped show the industry's support for the country and its struggle.
In an open letter to game development and esports companies, Ukrainian Vice Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has asked for Russia and ally Belarus to be cut off from all gaming platforms. Game companies like PlayStation and Xbox are asked to suspend online accounts from the two countries, while esports groups are asked to suspend Russian and Belorussian teams from competition. Fedorov's letter explains that modern technology is an effective way to counter the invasion, since cutting Russia and Belarus off from these digital commodities may motivate citizens to more actively protest the military offensive.
As some gaming companies are doing their part to help Ukraine, one Twitch streamer was recently forced to flee the country. FFXIV Twitch streamer Zepla left Ukraine after the invasion had already begun, after her departure was delayed by an inability to acquire passports for her pets. As tensions mounted Zepla refused to leave her companions behind, leaving her stuck in the country when Russia eventually attacked. Zepla managed to reach the Polish border, however, granting her safety from the brutal military incursion.
In the age of digital media, gaming companies have power to aid Ukraine in its time of need. Sanctions against Russia and Belarus are having an impact, and banning their citizens from gaming platforms could also assist in bringing an end to the military offensive. PlayStation and Xbox are yet to respond, however, so only time will tell whether gaming icons and esports leagues actually stop supporting the Russian and Belorussian markets.
Source: Mykhailo Fedorov/Twitter