The founder of Surgent Studios and creative director of Tales of Kenzera: ZAU,Abubakar Salim, recently issued a passionate and important statement on Twitter/X that addressed the targeted harassment he has come up against since the release of the studio’s debut title in April.
In the video, Salim says that he and his team have dealt with racist comments and that he has been told that he didn’t “deserve” the recognition he has received throughout his successful career because it wasn’t due to his incredible skills, but merely due to him being black. Even in his own post, Salim was targeted yet again by those who didn’t believe this was actually happening to him, pushing the actor to post screenshots of what he’s had to face.
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“A Different Dialogue Needs To Happen”
What was meant to be a time of celebration for Salim and his studio upon the release of their first successful game, has quickly turned into a void of disgusting, hate-filled responses.
In the comments section of Salim’sheartfelt videowhere he talks about being faced with constant targeted harassment from people who see diversity as a threat, theAssassin’s Creed Originsand Raised by Wolves star has had users leave horrible messages stating that they haven’t seen the harassment in question, hence there’s no proof of what he’s claiming and this is all a ploy to “promote the game”.
“Diverse games, they’re not about taking something away from you.”
In response, Salim said, “Just because you don’t see it doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen. People around you are grappling with discrimination and harassment routinely; it’s there if you want to see it.” To further prove his point to those who belittled his experience with people being disgustingly racist towards him, Salim posted a screenshot of the DMs he has received, so far, since the video aired. “But look, these messages were triggered by a post completely unrelated to race, and yet here we are.” Salim continues, “And I’m sure if even this was shown, it won’t be enough.”
In a bid to get more people to play Tales of Kenzera: Zau so they can experience Zau’s heartfelt journey as well as getting an insight into his incredible African culture and lore so that more eyes can be opened to its message, Salim announced that Surgent Studios would be bringing the game’s price down at the end of June, even though its only $15 now and already a steal at that.
If anyone deserves better, it’s Salim and his incredibly passionate team who crafted one of the most awe-inspiring titles of 2024.
Gamers, be better. Do better.
Tales of Kenzera: Zau
WHERE TO PLAY
Wield the dance of the shaman. Reclaim your father’s spirit. Brave the beautiful and treacherous land of Kenzera with the God of Death in Tales of Kenzerz: ZAU, a Metroidvania-style adventure crafted by Surgent Studios.
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