Hogwarts Legacy Lead Designer Quits Following YouTube Controversy

Hogwarts Legacy lead designer Troy Leavitt has left developer Avalanche Software and quit the project, following controversy around his YouTube channel.Leavitt became the centre of controversy two weeks ago, when journalist Liam Robertson pointed out that the designer had previously uploaded a number of videos in the past that, among other subjects, expressed support for the Gamergate movement and downplayed high-profile cases of sexual harassment.Leavitt has now explained on Twitter that he has left Avalanche Software, adding that he has “nothing but good things to say about the game, the dev team, and WB Games.” In a follow-up, Leavitt says that he felt “absolutely secure” in his position at Avalanche, but made the choice to resign.

1. I have made the decision to part ways with Avalanche Software. I have nothing but good things to say about the game, the dev team, and WB Games.

2. I will be releasing a YouTube Video about this soon on my channel.

— Troy Leavitt (@Troylus_true) March 5, 2021

Neither Avalanche Software, nor WB Games, have commented on Leavitt’s departure at time of writing. IGN has contacted both for comment.

Hogwarts Legacy – scheduled for release in 2022 – has seen a number of controversies since announcement, primarily centred around J.K. Rowling’s transphobic views. Avalanche has previously explained that Rowling is “not directly involved” with Hogwarts Legacy (although she does earn money from WB’s use of the IP), and a recent report suggested the game will allow for transgender characters to be created by players.

WB Interactive president David Haddad previously refused to criticise Rowling, saying that “she has the right to hold her opinions”. We’ve previously written about how Harry Potter fans are coping with Rowling’s views.

To learn more about Hogwarts Legacy visit this website: https://ggsel.net/en/catalog/hogwarts-legacy

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