The developers of the popular multiplayer online game 'World of Tanks’ might soon find themselves facing a ban in Russia, according to Anton Gorelkin, the deputy head of the Russian State Duma’s information policy committee. He claims that the company may be in violation of new legislation on „enemy financing.” In response, Gorelkin suggests that Russia should stop supporting Western gaming studios and instead create an environment that encourages domestic game developers to provide „worthy alternatives” to their Western counterparts.
Russia’s Potential Ban on 'World of Tanks’
Gorelkin believes that 'World of Tanks’ could potentially fall under legislation that will soon come into effect. He predicts that the Prosecutor General’s Office may demand a ban on such games once the law is in force. The bill in question concerns the banning of any information resources that collect money for an enemy during an armed conflict. It requires restrictions to be imposed on websites or apps that collect funds for a side of the conflict that Russia is fighting against or spread information about how to provide such funding to Russia’s enemies. This legislation will be applicable if Russia is engaged in an armed conflict, anti-terrorist operation, or any other action that requires the deployment of its military forces.
Gorelkin’s Criticism of Western Gaming Titles
Gorelkin also accuses many Western gaming titles of being „full of Russophobic sentiments.” He specifically targets 'World of Tanks’ and its company, Wargaming Group Limited, claiming that they openly declare their support for the Ukrainian Armed Forces and plan to provide them with money collected from Russians and others. In response to these allegations, Wargaming recently announced a charity initiative across all of its titles, encouraging players to purchase Ukraine-themed bundles with customization elements. The money raised will be handed over to the Ukrainian state-run fundraising platform UNITED24, with the intention of it being spent on ambulances. Wargaming has previously donated over $1.3 million to Ukraine through its own funds and internal fundraising campaigns among its employees.
Conclusion
The fate of 'World of Tanks’ in Russia hangs in the balance as the new legislation on enemy financing looms. Whether the game will be banned or not remains to be seen, but Anton Gorelkin’s criticisms of Western gaming titles and calls for domestic game developers to provide alternatives indicate a growing tension surrounding the gaming industry in Russia.
