HANOVER, N.H. (AP) — Sachi Schmidt-Hori, an associate professor of Japanese literature and culture at Dartmouth College, faced a wave of online harassment from fans of the video game Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Despite not being involved in character creation, she worked as a narrative consultant for Ubisoft’s latest installment in the franchise. The backlash began in May 2024 with the release of a promotional trailer featuring Yasuke, a Black African samurai, alongside Naoe, a Japanese female assassin set in 16th century Japan.
Critics accused the game of promoting “wokeness,” directing their anger at Schmidt-Hori. She was attacked on online forums, received bogus reviews of her scholarly work, and faced a flood of profanity in her inbox. Many criticized her academic research into gender and sexuality. Some even targeted her husband.
Instead of retreating, Schmidt-Hori chose to confront her attackers with kindness. Inspired by civil rights leader John Lewis, she decided to cause “good trouble.” She replied to angry emails, inviting senders to speak face-to-face via Zoom. Her approach led some to apologize, including an influencer who removed a negative article about her.
Anik Talukder, a south Asian man from the UK, apologized after discussing his Reddit post with Schmidt-Hori on Zoom. Initially critical of Yasuke’s inclusion, he now acknowledges the importance of diverse representation.
Ubisoft defended its creative choices, stating that while games are based on historical research, they remain works of fiction. The company condemned harassment and praised Schmidt-Hori’s approach.
Kate Mays, an assistant professor at the University of Vermont, noted that Schmidt-Hori’s intervention was brilliant in addressing online toxicity. By engaging directly, she humanized the conversation.
— new from AP News