Ubisoft Responds to Disturbing Abuse Allegations at External Studio
A recent exposé by YouTube channel People Make Games has revealed shocking allegations of mental and physical abuse at Brandoville Studio, an Indonesian game development studio that collaborated with Ubisoft on Assassin's Creed Shadows. Ubisoft has responded, stating they are "deeply disturbed" by the report and condemn all forms of abuse.
The video details horrific accounts of abuse perpetrated by Kwan Cherry Lai, the commissioner and wife of Brandoville's CEO. Allegations include forcing employees into religious worship, severe sleep deprivation, and even compelling an employee, Christa Sydney, to self-harm while filming the act. Further accounts from other Brandoville employees corroborate these claims, describing salary withholding and the overworking of a pregnant employee, resulting in premature birth and the tragic loss of her child.
Brandoville's Troubled Past and Uncertain Future
Founded in 2018, Brandoville Studio closed its doors in August 2024. Reports of abusive practices allegedly date back to 2019, a period during which the studio contributed to major game titles such as Age of Empires 4 and Assassin's Creed Shadows. Indonesian authorities are currently investigating these allegations and seeking to question Kwan Cherry Lai, though her reported presence in Hong Kong complicates the process.
The gaming industry continues to grapple with issues of poor working conditions, abuse, and harassment, both online and within studios. This incident underscores the urgent need for stronger employee protections and a more thorough examination of industry practices to prevent future tragedies. The pursuit of justice for Sydney and other alleged victims remains uncertain.
