“I would fight it tooth and nail”: The Sims artist would challenge any mandate to reduce diversity after EA Saudi buyout
Following the announced $56 billion acquisition of EA by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, Silver Lake, and Kushner's Affinity Partners—financed partly through $20 billion in debt—concerns have emerged about whether new ownership might reshape creative direction at studios known for diverse representation. The Sims, built since 2000 on supporting varied gender identities, sexualities, and abilities, drew particular scrutiny, prompting several major creators to leave the EA Creator Network in the wake of the buyout announcement.
Asked whether she feared mandates to reduce diversity or restrict LGBTQIA+ support, senior character artist Jess Hyland said she had heard nothing of the sort and would resist any such directive firmly. Former producer Mark Darrah had previously cautioned that studios with established progressive messaging might face pressure to realign under ownership seeking cultural fit, though he acknowledged the reputational risks of forcing such changes. EA publicly reaffirmed its values and commitment to The Sims as an inclusive platform, yet concerns persist among staff about layoffs tied to acquisition debt and potential shifts in company culture.
- Senior Sims artist reports no diversity mandates but pledges strong opposition to any push to reduce LGBTQIA+ support
- Industry figures worry Saudi ownership could pressure studios to realign creative values with investor interests
- EA restates commitment to inclusive gameplay as creators depart and workforce concerns mount over acquisition debt