Following weeks of military buildup and political jockeying, Russian president Vladimir Putin announced “military operation” Ukraine’s eastern Donbas region this past evening, although a more large-scale invasion seems to be in progress, with explosions and attacks being reported across the country. This is obviously a complex and quickly-evolving situation that would usually be outside of the purview of a tech site, but Ukraine is home to a burgeoning video game development community, some of whom have responded to Russia’s invasion of their homeland.
The strongest response has come from GSC Game World (creators of the STALKER series) who expressed support for their country and armed forces.
The Russian Federation has declared war on Ukraine.
The future is unknown, but we are sure of our Armed Forces and country.
We ask all: do not stand aside and help those in need.Support the Armed Forces of Ukraine:
UA843000010000000047330992708 pic.twitter.com/XoEFDtgKiW— GSC Game World (@GSC_GW) February 24, 2022
— GSC Game World (@GSC_GW) February 24, 2022
For those wondering what the account GSC shared is about, it directly supports the Ukrainian military. GSC Game World isn’t the only Ukrainian dev to respond – Frogwares (Sherlock Holmes Chapter One) and Vostok Games (Fear the Wolves) have also responded.
We can’t just stand by. Russia attacks our homeland and denies the sovereignty of Ukraine. We are trying to stay safe, but this is war, there are no two ways about it.
We call on everyone to force Putin to withdraw from our lands #StopRussianAggression
— Frogwares (@Frogwares) February 24, 2022
We’re a peaceful nation, and in all the years since we gained our independence, we’ve never attacked or threatened anyone.
Because of this situation, our work will be impacted and our lives can be destroyed.
— Frogwares (@Frogwares) February 24, 2022
— Vostok Games (@VostokGames) February 24, 2022
Obviously, game development is a low priority given the current situation. We here at Wccftech hope for peaceful resolution to the conflict and the safety of Ukraine’s development community and citizens.
