GOOGLE removed a Controversial app called the “Slavery Simulator” amid the backlash it received in Brazil.
A game titled Simulador de Escravidão or Slavery Simulator, developed by Magnus Games, has been taken down from Google’s app store following widespread criticism from Brazilian social media users.
The said game includes the “buy and sell” of enslaved characters which sparked outrage and raised concerns about promoting racism and normalizing violence.
The game was launched on Google’s Play Store on April 20 and had already been downloaded over 1,000 times before its removal on Wednesday,
In response to the controversy, Brazil’s Public Prosecutor’s Office has initiated an investigation into how the game was made available on the Play Store.
The office also highlighted the presence of numerous racist comments on the Google platform and requested specific information about the game from Google.
Screenshots of the game revealed that users could engage in the exchange, purchase, and sale of enslaved people. The game’s description presented players with two objectives: the “Path of the Tyrant” or the “Path of the Liberator,” allowing them to become wealthy enslavers or work towards the abolition of slavery.
Prompts within the game encouraged users to utilize enslaved people for personal enrichment and prevent the abolition of slavery.
The game quickly gained traction on social media, drawing widespread condemnation from multiple individuals, including influencers, activists, and lawmakers.
Levi Kaique Ferreira, an influencer activist, and professor, expressed concern about normalizing violence against Black people.
Lawmaker Denise Pessoa emphasized the dark history of slavery and stated that a “Slavery Simulator” should not be a game theme.
Another lawmaker, Orlando Silva, lodged a formal complaint against the game, labeling it recreational racism and demanding accountability.
In response to the controversy, Google stated that it has strict policies to ensure user safety, including prohibiting apps promoting violence or inciting hatred based on race or ethnic origin. Google encouraged users to report any violations of these policies.
The game had initially received a rating of “all ages,” indicating its suitability for all audiences.
However, reviews from users expressing shock and disbelief at its content raised concerns about accessibility to children.
Magnus Games, the developer of the “Slavery Simulator,” defended their creation, stating that it was intended solely for entertainment and condemned slavery in any form.
They emphasized that the game’s content was fictional and not based on specific historical events.
As the removal of the “Slavery Simulator” prompts public debate, there are growing calls for stricter regulations to prevent disseminating content that promotes racism, glorifies violence, and trivializes historical atrocities.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible content creation and distribution within the gaming industry.
