Bethesda’s recent “make America nazi-free again” marketing line for Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus didn’t go down too well with some. While the series has always been about taking the Nazis down, this particular phrasing resulted in mixed reactions, with some fans accusing the company of being deliberately controversial.
Bethesda’s VP for PR and Marketing, Pete Hines, has responded to the accusations in an interview with Games Industry, stating that the company isn’t worried about “being on the right side of history.” He further explained:
At the time none of us expected that the game would be seen as a comment on current issues, but here we are. Bethesda doesn’t develop games to make specific statements or incite political discussions. We make games that we think are fun, meaningful, and immersive for a mature audience.
In Wolfenstein’s case, it’s pure coincidence that Nazis are marching in the streets of America this year. And it’s disturbing that the game can be considered a controversial political statement at all.
This is what our game is about. It’s what this franchise has always been about. We aren’t afraid to embrace what BJ stands for and what Wolfenstein represents. When it comes to Nazis, you can put us down in the ‘against’ column.
Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus will release on October 27.
[Source: Games Industry]
