Recently, Bethesda has been marketing Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus as an anti-Nazi game. It falls in line with the theme of BJ Blazkowicz overthrowing the Nazi Regime in an alternate timeline America in 2014 where The New World Order (Nazis) have taken over the United States.
Wolfenstein as a series has always been about fighting Nazis and even the hashtag created for the game is #NoMoreNazis. Peter Hines, the head of Marketing and VP of PR for Bethesda is very aware of current events in America.
“Wolfenstein has been a decidedly anti-Nazi series since the first release more than 20 years ago. We aren’t going to shy away from what the game is about. We don’t feel it’s a reach for us to say Nazis are bad and un-American, and we’re not worried about being on the right side of history here.”
Hines also states the release of the game has no relation regarding the recent Nazi issues in America. The game has been in development for two years and “it, unfortunately, happens to highlight current events in the real world.” Hines states that Bethesda doesn’t make game regarding the current political issue but “We make games that we think are fun, meaningful, and immersive for a mature audience.” The trailer below sparked comments about anti-Nazi commercials.
The marketing against Nazism has stirred controversy regarding the game. People on social media have complained to Bethesda regarding Wolfenstein. Hines continues to defend the message against Nazism and most of the tweets are all about promoting different methods of killing the Nazi enemies in the game. While Hines and Bethesda may be a little worried about alienating potential customers he has stated: “to be honest, people who are against freeing the world from the hate and murder of a Nazi regime probably aren’t interested in playing Wolfenstein.”
Another statement Hines said on how powerful Games can be as a platform.
“Their ability to immerse players in an alternate role, in an alternate world, like Wolfenstein’s Nazi-infested America, allows players to actually feel and experience the emotions of the situation.
I’m very impressed that Bethesda and Hines had stood firm on its statements against Nazism. Many companies tend to apologize for representatives remarks or actions to appease outcry but Hines gave a very professional response in regards to Wolfenstein message and overall theme of the game. Hines also acknowledges the power games can have as an art medium. They have the unique ability to immerse players into alternative settings and give a sense of control.
Sources:
The Gaming News Corner 