The topic of why people are boycotting Genshin Impact has prompted a lot of conversation online, especially with the racism allegations that have plagued the game. Twitter was awash in hashtags like #BoycottGenshin, with some fans and players outraged over the allegations and others expressing indifference. Some people have been criticized for not taking the allegations seriously, while others have been defending the game and accepting its partner offers.
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MiHoYo’s lack of diversity
It’s no secret that fans of miHoYo are outraged over the lack of diversity in the game. While MiHoYo has yet to publicly respond to the accusations, fans have taken to Twitter to demand that the game be boycotted. The #boycottgenshin campaign focused on the Hilichurls, the game’s enemies. While the Hilichurls are described as “primitive wandering people” who inhabit Teyvat’s wilderness, the game’s developers have been silent and largely apathetic.
The lack of representation of indigenous cultures in MiHoYo is not new. Native Americans, for instance, have long been the target of harmful misrepresentations and colonial misrepresentation. Most history textbooks portray indigenous cultures as being in desperate need of help from colonizers. These cultures were often characterized as “primitive” and “simple-minded,” making their inclusion problematic.
Albert’s attraction to a female character
Many fans have questioned MiHoYo’s decision to include young girl characters in the game. While they have a point, the game’s script doesn’t necessarily indicate romantic interest between Albert and Barbara. Instead, Albert is simply a big fan of TWICE, which some fans have found objectionable. Regardless, some fans are upset by the decision and boycotting Genshin impact because of it.
After a video resurfaced on the Internet discussing the character design process for Genshin Impact, fans became upset about the choice of sex. The video also showed footage of a model for the game’s Hilichurls, a goblin-like species that the game features as one of its enemies. These videos led to the hashtag #BoycottGenshin to trend on Twitter.
Hilichurls in Genshin Impact
The game features several types of Hilichurls, including the Unusual and Rare ones. The Unusual Hilichurl is based on the fictional character MiHoYo founder Liu Wei. These creatures can be thrown in a variety of ways, including throwing leafy greens and yellow Homu dolls. In addition to earning 233 Mora and 1 to 3 Cabbages, they can also earn Primogems and 18 Adventure Experiences.
The Normal and Unusual Hilichurls are non-aggressive, attacking only when damaged. They can only be encountered once per day and can be seen in various memes. These hilichurls are often described as being similar to the Unusual Hilichurl, but with beefier powers. They can also petrify and freeze, but they do not spawn in their usual manner.
MiHoYo’s response to allegations of colorism
After the game’s September 2020 release, Genshin Impact has been making the rounds on social media, with players calling out the game’s creator miHoYo for alleged colorism and racism. Twitter users have responded to the controversy with their own opinions, ranging from the “grinding” element to the representation of indigenous peoples in the game. A video posted by the Korean animation studio MiHoYo shows an artist referencing indigenous American dance when creating the characters in the game.
Despite miHoYo’s refusal to comment, fans are mobilizing to defend the popular YouTuber. The player has yet to respond to requests for comment or insight into the colorism allegations leveled at her. In the meantime, he will probably have to air his performance live on October 3 at 3 PM PST. It is unclear what MiHoYo has in store for Genshin Impact’s anniversary.
