Ubisoft Reacts to Assassin's Creed Support Studio Abuse Claims

Ubisoft Responds to Disturbing Abuse Allegations at External Studio

Ubisoft has issued a statement expressing deep concern regarding allegations of severe mental and physical abuse at Brandoville Studio, an Indonesian external support studio that contributed to the development of Assassin's Creed Shadows. The YouTube channel People Make Games published a video detailing these claims, which include accusations of toxic behavior, forced religious practices, sleep deprivation, and even self-harm compelled by the studio's commissioner, Kwan Cherry Lai (wife of the CEO).

This incident highlights a persistent problem within the video game industry: the prevalence of abuse and harassment. Past reports have documented instances of bullying, harassment, and even cases leading to suicidal thoughts among developers. The allegations against Brandoville, including financial exploitation and the overworking of a pregnant employee resulting in premature birth and the subsequent death of the child, are particularly egregious.

Brandoville, founded in 2018 and closed in August 2024, reportedly worked on several high-profile titles, including Age of Empires 4 and Assassin's Creed Shadows. While Ubisoft condemns the abuse, it emphasizes that the incidents occurred outside its direct control. However, the situation underscores the need for greater industry-wide accountability and protection for workers.

Indonesian authorities are investigating the allegations and seeking to question Kwan Cherry Lai, though her current location in Hong Kong complicates matters. The future of legal action and whether justice will be served for the alleged victims remains uncertain. The ongoing reports of poor working conditions, abuse, and harassment across the gaming industry, both online and within studios, demand immediate and comprehensive action to ensure worker safety and well-being. The industry must actively address these issues to create a more ethical and supportive work environment.