Some of board gaming's biggest and most influential reviewers are boycotting Codenames publisher Czech Games Edition, after the company decided to release a new Harry Potter-themed version of the game despite years of anti-trans campaigning from the character's creator, JK Rowling.
They are clearly hoping that people who aren’t really aware of JK Rowling’s actions buy the game anyway. Otherwise, they wouldn’t be doubling down. However, in the long term, I can see this decision hurting them quite a bit, so let’s see if it pays off…
They were my favorite publisher. No hyperbole, Vlaada is my favorite designer and I own more CGE games than any other publisher. I replied to their announcement, “Sad to see CGE funding the anti trans legal movement through JK Rowling. I can’t in good conscience buy anything more from CGE as long as this is happening.”
Their response was to block me, and many others who leveled thoughtful criticism. I’m not sure they would be capable of repairing my feelings about them. That response and their continuing refusal to engage with the fact that the money Rowling makes from this game will be used to hurt a vulnerable community are really hurtful.
I’m not going to get rid of the games I have, but I won’t be giving them any more money nor will I recommend their games to anyone else.
They are clearly hoping that people who aren’t really aware of JK Rowling’s actions buy the game anyway. Otherwise, they wouldn’t be doubling down. However, in the long term, I can see this decision hurting them quite a bit, so let’s see if it pays off…
They were my favorite publisher. No hyperbole, Vlaada is my favorite designer and I own more CGE games than any other publisher. I replied to their announcement, “Sad to see CGE funding the anti trans legal movement through JK Rowling. I can’t in good conscience buy anything more from CGE as long as this is happening.” Their response was to block me, and many others who leveled thoughtful criticism. I’m not sure they would be capable of repairing my feelings about them. That response and their continuing refusal to engage with the fact that the money Rowling makes from this game will be used to hurt a vulnerable community are really hurtful.
I’m not going to get rid of the games I have, but I won’t be giving them any more money nor will I recommend their games to anyone else.
Nah quarterly profits bro. Who cares what happens next year! all that exists is next quarter baby
I’ve heard of CEOs who made the mistake of buying cocaine for future quarters, and never getting to enjoy it.