The gaming industry witnessed a significant controversy this week following the latest update to the popular online survival horror game, Dead By Daylight. The game introduced a new character, The Unknown, a shape-shifting entity that soon became the center of a heated debate over its appearance and the implications thereof.
The character, voiced by a transgender woman, was criticized for perpetuating negative stereotypes, particularly through one of its skins—a cheerleader costume that many have deemed transphobic. The criticism intensified when the voice actor accused the game developers, Behaviour Interactive, of misleading her about the character’s design, thus inadvertently making her complicit in promoting a harmful stereotype.
The Voice Behind the Controversy
The voice actor, who has chosen to remain anonymous for safety reasons, took to social media to express her disillusionment with the character’s final design. Initially thrilled to be part of the project, she later felt betrayed when the character’s appearance seemed to mock her trans identity, drawing virulent backlash and personal attacks.
In a detailed statement, she clarified that her issue was not with the character skins per se but with the lack of communication from the developers about the final design. Despite her efforts to get more information about the character she was voicing, she was kept in the dark, leading to her public outcry.
Developers’ Response to the Backlash
Behaviour Interactive responded to the backlash with a statement condemning the misuse of their character to harass individuals, including the voice actor. They emphasized their commitment to making Dead By Daylight a welcoming space for all players and acknowledged the voice actor’s invaluable contribution to the character’s creation.
The developer’s previous introduction of Tubarāo, the game’s first transgender character, was highlighted as evidence of their ongoing efforts to support LGBTQ+ representation in gaming. However, this recent controversy underscores the complex challenges of creating inclusive content that respects all aspects of diversity.
