As a dedicated gamer and follower of the gaming industry for years, it’s disheartening to see yet another high-profile figure tarnishing the reputation of our beloved community. Chris Barrett, a name once synonymous with Halo and Destiny, has now become associated with something far more troubling – inappropriate behavior towards female colleagues.
Chris Barrett joined Bungie back in 1999 and swiftly rose through the ranks to become one of the lead directors for some of Bungie’s most renowned series. Initially, he was an artist who eventually attained a high-ranking role, overseeing versions of Halo and Destiny.
Back in March 2024, there were rumors swirling around about my game studio’s CEO, Barrett, leaving unexpectedly. Turns out, those whispers weren’t true – he was actually terminated from his position. The reason? His repeated instances of unacceptable behavior towards our female colleagues. It’s disheartening to learn this, but I believe it’s important for transparency and setting the standard for a respectful and inclusive gaming community.
The Allegations Against Chris Barret
According to a report by Jason Schreier for Bloomberg, the Barrett case received more clarity after an internal probe at Bungie resulted in his dismissal from his high-ranking position within the company.
Approximately eight female coworkers voiced concerns over his unsuitable conduct, and these claims were substantiated during the subsequent probe.
In my fandom, I uncovered some concerning behavior on Barrett’s part. He apparently addressed several lower-level female colleagues as attractive and engaged in text exchanges that were not professionally appropriate. Furthermore, he even suggested playing a game of truth or dare with them, which seemed to cross a line.
In conversations with Bloomberg, several women alleged that Barrett often sent them numerous texts, made inappropriate remarks, and suggested playing truth-or-dare. These women claimed the advances were unwelcome and that they felt uneasy due to Barrett’s greater influence at Bungie, as he held a more powerful position there.
— Jason Schreier (@jasonschreier) August 28, 2024
Additionally, it seems he shared with these females details about his position and influence within the organization, implying that he might be able to assist them in advancing their careers.
Barrett explained:
I feel that I have always conducted myself with integrity and been respectful and supportive of my colleagues, many of whom I consider my closest friends. I never understood my communications to be unwanted and I would have never thought they could possibly have made anyone feel uncomfortable. If anyone ever felt that way about their interaction with me, I am truly sorry.
A representative from Sony Interactive Entertainment, who is Bungie’s parent company, made these comments regarding the issue:
[The company takes] all complaints of misconduct very seriously. It is our policy and practice to investigate every complaint promptly and take action based on the findings of our investigation.
You may not be aware, but incidents similar to these are more common than one might assume. A significant number of high-profile video game companies struggle to establish a workplace that is devoid of unacceptable conduct towards women.
Over the last several years, these companies – Riot Games, Ubisoft Entertainment SA, and Activision Blizzard – have faced allegations concerning inappropriate behavior within their workplaces.
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2024-08-29 15:39