Ubisoft Responds to Disturbing Allegations of Abuse at External Studio
Ubisoft has issued a statement expressing deep concern regarding allegations of severe mental and physical abuse at Brandoville Studio, an Indonesian outsourcing partner that contributed to 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 the coerced self-harm of an employee, Christa Sydney, by studio commissioner Kwan Cherry Lai (wife of Brandoville's CEO).
The allegations extend beyond Sydney, with multiple former employees reporting similar instances of abuse, including salary withholding and the overworking of a pregnant employee, resulting in a premature birth and the subsequent death of the child. These disturbing reports paint a grim picture of workplace conditions at Brandoville, which operated from 2018 to August 2024 and also worked on titles such as Age of Empires 4.
While the abuse occurred at an external studio and not within Ubisoft itself, the company's statement strongly condemns such actions. The Indonesian police are investigating these claims and seeking to question Kwan Cherry Lai, who reportedly claims to be in Hong Kong.
This incident underscores a persistent problem within the video game industry: the prevalence of harassment, abuse, and poor working conditions. Numerous reports over the years highlight the need for stronger protections for employees, addressing not only internal issues but also the ethical responsibilities of companies towards their external partners. The pursuit of justice for those allegedly abused at Brandoville remains uncertain, but the case serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for systemic change within the industry to ensure a safer and more equitable work environment for all.
