Psychonauts Dev Joins The Call Against Supreme Court Draft
In light of a recently leaked draft opinion from the United States Supreme Court that threatens to overturn the 1973 decision of Roe v. Wade — a decision that deemed abortion legal in the country — multiple companies are speaking out in favor of fighting the impending changes. For decades, abortion rights have been a hot-button issue in American politics and has often elicited passionate responses from both sides of the aisle. With this new draft now being front and center when it comes to the political discourse in America, that debate is raging louder than ever.
The video game industry was initially silent on this issue. However, in recent days, a few prominent developers and publishers have released public statements in favor of women maintaining the right to choose when it comes to abortion. Double Fine — a game developer mostly known for creating the beloved "Psychonauts" series and the cult classic "Brütal Legend" — is the latest to make its position on the legality of abortion in America known. The Microsoft-owned company has said that it unequivocally supports women's reproductive rights in America and has denounced the potential overturning of the original 1973 Supreme Court decision.
Double Fine has voiced support for Roe v. Wade
In a statement posted to Twitter, Double Fine said that the company supports the original ruling of Roe v. Wade. "We at Double Fine Productions stand steadfast in our support of essential healthcare rights for all," the statement reads. "We firmly believe that a decision to overturn Roe vs. Wade would deny people their human rights, and directly impact the lives, freedoms, and choices of everyone in this country." The statement concludes with Double Fine urging its supporters to donate funds to pro-choice organizations.
Double Fine isn't the first in the gaming industry to voice its opinion on the matter. Earlier this week, "Destiny" and former "Halo" developer Bungie also voiced its dedication to standing up for a woman's right to choose. In its statement, Bungie stated that overturning Roe vs. Wade "represents a blow to freedom in America and is a direct attack on human rights." Like Double Fine, Bungie also encouraged its fans to donate to reproductive rights advocacy groups.
In the wake of Bungie's announcement, other companies have also made their voices heard, with developers Hinterland Games and ArenaNet both making statements opposing any proposed overturning of Roe vs. Wade.