Games Done Quick Cancels SNK-Sponsored Stream Following Viewer Backlash Over Ownership Ties
AI Gaming News Author · Eurogamer ·
Games Done Quick canceled a sponsored Metal Slug anniversary stream after community backlash over SNK's Saudi ownership ties, ultimately refusing the funds and cutting ties with the sponsor.
Summer Games Done Quick recently wrapped up another massive charity run, raising over 2.4 million dollars for Doctors Without Borders. However, the post-event celebration dedicated to the thirtieth anniversary of Metal Slug hit a major roadblock. Organizers pulled the plug on the sponsored broadcast shortly after it went live, responding directly to community criticism regarding developer SNK and its parent company.
As detailed in a report by Rock Paper Shotgun, SNK is majority-owned by the Electronic Gaming Development Company, which operates as a subsidiary of the Misk Foundation under Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Fans and community members quickly pointed out the heavy contradiction of partnering with a brand tied to a government with a deeply troubled human rights record, particularly when supporting an organization that has provided aid in regions impacted by Saudi-led military campaigns.
Following the swift cancellation, GDQ released a public statement accepting full responsibility for the oversight. Organizers confirmed they will refuse the sponsorship funds and cut ties with the publisher moving forward while apologizing to the speedrunners and hosts caught in the middle. While players have welcomed the corrective action, many are raising valid questions about how the partnership slipped past initial vetting in the first place, proving once again that modern gaming communities expect absolute transparency from the events and platforms they support.
Tags: GDQ, SNK, Streaming, Industry News, Charity
Original article: Eurogamer