Although some reports claim that Dying Light 2 is dealing with development issues, the series' creator Techland Games has countered that the game's latest setback will not impact Dying Light 2's release schedule. In a statement released today, the developer announced that it was parting ways with writer Chris Avellone. Before his termination, Avellone was the game's narrative designer.
WARNING: This article contains references to sexual assault.
Like several YouTubers, streamers, and video game industry professionals, Avellone faces allegations of sexual assault and abuse. Over the weekend, several women on Twitter and Reddit accused Avellone of groping and sexual assault at conventions and public events.
In response to these allegations, Techland Games cited its "no tolerance" policy on sexual harassment in its announcement on Twitter. Calling Avellone an "external consultant" and not a direct employee, the developer claimed that it and Avellone mutually agreed to part ways. However, Techland clarified that this decision has not affected ongoing work on Dying Light 2. The developer promised that both the "narrative... and the whole development" teams are still "progressing efficiently" and working on a revised schedule from January.
Not only was Techland's decision the correct one to make, but it is also the latest in a concerning trend of firings and withdrawn invitations in Avellone's career. According to one of Avellone's accusers, the writer was banned from one convention after he assaulted her for his previous poor behavior, and over the years, at least one employer fired him and several conventions "stopped inviting him on their own accord."
However, the fact that one previous employer took "years" to fire Avellone for his behavior is incredibly concerning, and consistent with the industry's tendency to dismiss the harassment that several women have faced. Although Techland's dismissal of Avellone was a strong decision, the persisting issue is that developers could still hire Avellone after public pressure has died down. After all, several of last weekend's victims have pointed out that their assailants have largely escaped long-term consequences.
Hopefully, these concerning allegations will motivate companies in the video game industry to evaluate its measures against abusive individuals. By addressing this systemic issue, the industry would allow women in its staff and user communities to feel safer.
Dying Light 2 is in development.