I was ready to roll my eyes upon learning that a fairly major publication I write for is straight up boycotting writing about all Activision/Blizzard titles (after all isn't us cutting off all coverage for the foreseeable future only harming the hundreds of innocent developers, streamers, and others associated with the games as well)? But upon actually looking into the details, a lot of this stuff is pretty deplorable, and frankly makes me bummed as a major Overwatch fan.
I think a lot of it comes from the sort of predatory nature of this corporate culture of these major companies, with some of these big shots thinking they're untouchable and can do virtually whatever they want. Not to say misogyny/harassment/assault doesn't occur on the lower levels and among average gamers, but I do think that higher corporate studio level is when it becomes a far more widespread, harsher, and more of a systemic problem. And this obviously goes well beyond gaming. Hell look at Harvey Weinstein for instance..
Obviously I don't have the answers, other than all this malignant systemic behavior starts at a personal level. It starts with you. "Be the change you want to see in the world." The individual should be the focus. "Individual" means not associating "blame" or pigeonholing a group, but it also means striving to make a difference and set an example on a personal level. You do what you can and hope for that ripple effect. What you do does matter, even if it seems small. It extends outwards and effects others. View it as a bottom-up approach. The goal for me is total egalitarianism and total respect for others, men and women. We're all just people; people who seek respect, equal treatment, and to go about their business in peace. Treat others the way you'd want to be treated. Oldest cliche in the book but it applies.
And again, I think a lot of it is maintaining a humility. I think a lot of these bigger studios are filled with guys who think they're "owed" something and that they can get away with anything. That needs to change. Always stay considerate and humble.
"We hold these truths to be self-evident - all men and women created by the, go-you know.. you know the thing!" - Joe Biden
