German regulator investigates Steam over racist 'Plantation Simulator' game
The German Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur) has launched an investigation into the Steam platform following the availability of the indie game 'Plantation Simulator', which depicted slave owners chasing Black figures with whips. The game, which was briefly listed on Steam, sparked outrage for its trivialization of slavery. The regulator is examining whether Steam violated German laws against hate speech and incitement. The investigation underscores ongoing tensions between content moderation on digital platforms and freedom of expression. Steam, operated by Valve Corporation, has not yet commented on the probe.
Key facts
- The game 'Plantation Simulator' showed slave owners chasing Black figures with whips.
- The German Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur) is investigating Steam.
- The investigation concerns potential violations of German hate speech laws.
- The game was an indie title briefly available on Steam.
- Steam is operated by Valve Corporation.
- The regulator is probing whether the game constitutes incitement.
- The case highlights content moderation challenges on digital platforms.
- Steam has not yet responded to the investigation.
Entities
Institutions
- Bundesnetzagentur
- Steam
- Valve Corporation
Locations
- Germany