Capcom has canceled a planned lecture on the development of Monster Hunter Wilds. This decision comes after the company faced serious threats directed at its staff, related to the game’s performance issues.
Originally, the talk, titled “Monster Hunter: Wilds runs smoothly! Everything you need to know about optimization,” was set for CEDEC, Japan’s largest game developer conference. The intent was to share insights about the game’s performance improvements.
However, shortly after the talk was announced, the company received intense backlash on social media due to performance problems linked to the recent Free Title Update 2. This negative response led to the cancellation of the lecture.
While Capcom did not explicitly connect the cancellation to the harassment, the timing suggests a link. In a recent statement, the company emphasized its commitment to customer feedback while condemning slander and threats against its employees. They warned that continued harassment could lead to legal actions, stating, “In severe cases, we may contact the police or lawyers.”
Interestingly, many of the performance issues that caused the uproar have been addressed through a swift patch. Nevertheless, some players still report ongoing problems.
This incident highlights a growing trend in the gaming industry where developers face increasing pressure from fans. A recent survey indicated that over 40% of game developers have experienced online harassment. Experts note that while feedback is vital for improvement, harassment can severely impact team morale and creativity.
For additional insights into this escalating issue, a report from the International Game Developers Association (IGDA) underscores how toxicity in online communities can deter new talent from entering the field.
Capcom’s situation serves as a reminder of the fine line between constructive criticism and harmful behavior in the gaming world. Balancing fan expectations with developer capabilities continues to be a significant challenge in the industry.