The Satirical Billboard That’s Got the Gaming Industry Talking
As the Game Developers Conference (GDC) descended upon San Francisco, a peculiar billboard caught the attention of attendees and passersby alike. The eye-catching display featured the bald head of Gunther Harrison, a fictional CEO from the upcoming game Revenge of the Savage Planet, with a tongue-in-cheek message that’s left many in the gaming community chuckling and nodding in solidarity.
A Satirical Swipe at Phil Harrison
The billboard’s message, “Has a Harrison fired you lately? You might be eligible for emotional support,” is a clear reference to Phil Harrison, the former Google executive who oversaw the company’s ill-fated Stadia cloud gaming service. Harrison’s tenure at Google was marked by controversy, particularly when he shut down Stadia Games & Entertainment (SG&E), leaving many developers jobless.
The Fallout of Stadia’s Demise
The shutdown of SG&E had a ripple effect on the gaming industry, with many developers struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss of their livelihoods. Montreal-based Typhoon Games, which was acquired by Google in 2019, was particularly hard hit. The studio’s developers found themselves out of a job on the same day that Journey to the Savage Planet launched as a Stadia exclusive.
Raccoon Logic’s Response
Fast-forward to today, and Raccoon Logic, the studio that reformed from the ashes of Typhoon Games, is taking a satirical swipe at Harrison with their own billboard. The QR code on the display directs visitors to a promotional page for Revenge of the Savage Planet, featuring a message that’s sure to resonate with many in the gaming community: “We got fired by him as well!” The page also promises a donation to the Canadian Mental Health Association for each person who scans the billboard, with donations already exceeding $2,500.
A Cautionary Tale
Phil Harrison’s tenure at Google serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of effective communication and empathy in the gaming industry. His departure from Google in 2023 marked the end of an era, and it’s clear that his legacy continues to be felt.
Actionable Insights
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it’s essential for developers, publishers, and executives to prioritize transparency and understanding. By doing so, we can create a more supportive and inclusive environment for all involved.
Summary
The satirical billboard in San Francisco’s Union Square is a clever reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding in the gaming industry. As we move forward, let’s strive to create a more positive and supportive environment for all, and remember that even the most well-intentioned decisions can have far-reaching consequences.