3 Reasons Why Call Of Duty Renamed The Controversial MW2 Operator
The world of video games is no stranger to controversy, and the Call of Duty franchise has had its fair share of it over the years. Recently, with the release of Modern Warfare 2 & Warzone Season 4, a new controversy emerged surrounding a specific Operator skin.
The anime-style ‘Izanami’ skin quickly became the center of attention, but not for the reasons the developers had hoped. In response to the backlash, Call of Duty made the decision to rename the controversial MW2 Operator. Let’s explore three reasons why this renaming took place.
Offensive Backwards Spelling
One of the primary reasons for the renaming was the discovery of an offensive message hidden within the original name of the ‘Izanami’ skin. When spelt backwards, the name formed the phrase “I’m a Nazi,” which understandably sparked outrage among the community. Call of Duty has faced criticism in the past for its use of offensive symbols, and the developers recognized the need to address this issue promptly to maintain a respectful and inclusive gaming environment.
Community Backlash
The Call of Duty community is known for its vocal nature, and in this case, they made their voices heard loud and clear. Players expressed their concerns about the ‘Izanami’ skin, arguing that its anime-style aesthetics didn’t align with the game’s military theme. The community’s feedback played a crucial role in bringing attention to the controversy and putting pressure on the developers to take action. By renaming the skin, Call of Duty aimed to address the concerns and maintain a cohesive visual identity within the game.
Cultural Sensitivity
Cultural sensitivity is an essential aspect of game development, particularly when drawing inspiration from various mythologies and traditions. The original name ‘Izanami’ was derived from Japanese mythology, where it represents a deity associated with creation and death. However, unintentionally connecting this revered name with an offensive phrase undermined the cultural significance and respect that should be upheld. By renaming the Operator, Call of Duty demonstrated a commitment to cultural sensitivity and a willingness to rectify unintentional missteps.
The decision to rename the controversial MW2 Operator in Call of Duty was influenced by several factors. The discovery of an offensive message when the original name was spelt backwards, community backlash regarding the skin’s aesthetics, and the importance of cultural sensitivity all played a role in the renaming process.
Call of Duty’s response reflects its commitment to maintaining a positive gaming experience for players and addressing concerns when they arise. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for developers to be receptive to community feedback and take proactive steps to foster inclusivity and respect within their games.
Also Read: Call Of Duty: 5 Amazing Details About Black Ops Cold War
