IGDA offers support for harassed developers

The International Game Developers Association (IGDA) has vowed to offer support for developers who have experienced harassment online.

"Over the last several weeks, game developers and affiliates have been the subject of harassment and ‘doxxing’ attacks, including threats and posting of home addresses,” a statement read.

While we support diverse viewpoints and healthy debate on the issues within our industry, we condemn personal attacks such as these which are not only morally reprehensible, but also illegal in many countries. We call on the entire game community to stand together against this abhorrent behaviour."

Pressed by Gamasutra on what specific measure will be taken, IGDA executive director Kate Edwards said: One of the most important things the IGDA can do is to continue to serve its key role as a spokesperson for the community.

We are also working with IGDA members to provide developers with a specific means to seek support and counselling in the event of harassment or other issues. Additionally, we are in the process of developing content that will help developers respond to this issue for the Resource Centre on the IGDA website.”

Although it doesn’t reference any specific event, the move comes after the much reported abuse suffered by the likes of Depression Quest developer Zoe Quinn, Fez creator Phil Fish and most recently the creator of the Tropes vs Women video series Anita Sarkeesian.

An open letter asking for social media hostility towards developers to be stopped has now well surpassed 1,000 signatures.