Producer: "Game is for simple entertainment purposes"
Eventually removed due to racism controversy
A mobile game allowing the trade of virtual Black slave characters has emerged in Brazil, sparking outrage. Following strong criticism, the problematic app has now been removed.
According to foreign media such as CNN and BBC on the 25th (local time), a game called "Slave System Simulator" was released on Brazil's Google Play Store on the 20th of last month.
The game proceeds by letting users choose between the tendencies of "tyrant" or "liberator," then owning virtual slaves to make them work or exchange and trade them. The Black characters in the game have chains around their wrists, ankles, and necks.
Regarding this, the developer (Megnus Games) stated, "The game was created solely for entertainment purposes," and "We oppose and condemn slavery in any form." They further explained, "All game content is fictional and unrelated to historical events."
The game was available for free download to anyone, including minors, and was downloaded over 1,000 times shortly after its release. Notably, some game reviews reportedly included comments such as "There are not enough torture options" and "Please add whipping."
However, criticism soon arose that the game incites racial discrimination. Brazilian lawmaker Orlando Silva also officially protested via Twitter, calling it "entertainment racism."
As public criticism intensified, Google removed the app on the 24th, about a month after its release. However, it is reported that users who had already downloaded the app can still access the game.
Google stated in a press release, "Apps that promote violence or hatred against individuals or groups based on race or ethnicity are not allowed," and "We take appropriate action when policy violations are confirmed."
Meanwhile, Brazil was the country that abolished slavery the latest, in 1888. This was about 20 years later than the United States, which declared emancipation in 1863. Records show that from the mid-1500s to the late 1800s, 4 million Africans were brought to Brazil and exploited as labor on sugar and coffee plantations.
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