It’s no secret thatHogwarts Legacyis one of the most hotly-anticipated games currently in development. The upcomingHarry PotterRPG has a great deal of hype behind it as one of the first true triple-A games set in the Wizarding World, though it’s now found itself in the center of controversy.Hogwarts Legacylead designer Troy Leavitt is facing criticism for videos he uploaded to YouTube in the past.
Leavitt’s YouTube channel was pointed out by Twitter user Liam Robertson, who is known for collaborating with Did You Know Gaming. Robertson described Leavitt as a “far right YouTuber” who made “anti-fem and pro GG vids.” GG in this instance is in reference to the Gamergate controversy, which included a harassment campaign targeted primarily atZoe Quinn, Brianna Wu, and Anita Sarkeesian.
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Many of Leavitt’s videos are indeed aboutGamergateand feminism in video games. In the video “Gamergate - Thoughts of a developer,” Leavitt outright states, “I would say that I’m generally supportive of Gamergate as I understand it.” He also said that the way Gamergate “blew up” was “way overdue.” He also made a video entitled “In Defense of John Lasseter” the former Disney executive who departed from the company after being accused of sexual misconduct.
This is far from the first time that someone involved with creatingHarry Pottercontent came under fire for controversial statements.Harry Pottercreator J.K. Rowlinghas similarly been criticized for making controversial statements, to the point wheresomeHogwarts Legacydevelopershave said that her comments made them feel uncomfortable.
J.K. Rowling is not involved withHogwarts Legacy’s development, though, so this situation could have a more direct impact on how people view the game. It will be interesting to see how Leavitt responds, especially if it continues to draw more attention.
Hogwarts Legacyis in development for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X for release in 2022.
