Petition Calls for MiHoYo to Address Cultural Representation in Games like Genshin Impact

A petition challenging alleged cultural appropriation and whitewashing in MiHoYo's games, such as Genshin Impact, has gained substantial momentum. With nearly 61,000 signatures and counting towards a 75,000 goal, pressure mounts on the company to take corrective action across its titles.

Founded in 2012, Shanghai MiHoYo Network Technology Co., Ltd. is renowned for creating popular games like Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail, as well as expanding into various media forms including animation, comics, and merchandise. Despite its slogan "Tech Otakus Save the World," emphasizing a blend of technology and anime culture, MiHoYo faces criticism regarding its portrayal of diverse cultures in its games.

The petition on Change.org demands MiHoYo commit to respectful and authentic representation of all cultures, ending practices of cultural appropriation and whitewashing. Criticism particularly targets representations from regions like Sumeru and Natlan in Genshin Impact, and Penacony in Honkai Star Rail, citing concerns over inaccurate depictions of indigenous cultures.

Petitioners call for MiHoYo to collaborate with cultural experts, rigorously review content for authenticity, and ensure diverse and respectful character representation, especially as Genshin Impact prepares to introduce the Natlan region. Previous controversies, notably surrounding the Sumeru update, highlighted issues of character skin tones and naming conventions perceived as catering predominantly to Western audiences.

As signatures accumulate, the gaming community awaits MiHoYo's response to these growing demands for more inclusive and accurate cultural portrayals in its games.