Man when I heard about the dude pushing the other dude I had to take a break. I swear I was shaking, because I know that would be the moment I would lose my job and it sucks. I mean, why do people opt to behave like assholes at that level always baffles me. Is it insecurity? Fuck. That. Noise.
@@inklinedecline sometimes these folks can make the job not worth it. one day i was talking to my wife and she told me as much. it will vary person to person because i had similar situation after being moved across the country. that adds a level of difficulty since no one pays you to move back home. these bully know it and they prey on people. its sick and people need to change. dont chop off branches thinking its just games. its people in general unfortunately.
@@AdamDuffArt Jesus, I hope you are okay, I tried recording a 30 min audio file and that was a complete nightmare. Also the part about where you tell about a dream job and how the art director comes to you and says "we made the right choice" just gave me goosebumps and a sour taste in my mouth because that probably happens once in 20 years in big studios. Thanks for the video again.
man... your story about the secretary is something I've seen over and over again in my previous corporate jobs. Absolutely disgusting. Really makes you wonder about all the unreported instances of abuse we'll never hear about. Thanks for the video.
She absolutely only shared her story when she trusted him because she knows if she shared that story with just anyone she'll be made fun of for being "too sensitive over nothing" and "you're not even hot why do you think anyone's looking at you".
@@seekittycat Is not a reason about making fun off... if she says to anyone who been in the company for longer than her, the boss will know eventually(cause everyone there works thre, and been there for quite a while now and know each other and are all brothers and have strong bounds). I would only be a matter of time before she becomes an outcast right away, and maybe lose her job in the process. Specially if her boss is the one who did it, you think anyone would stand and defend her against the boss and lose risking his/her job? That's naive buddy... very naive... On another hand, this guy in the video was a god send, because he did not had any ties with the company previously, and he was still new there, so she knew he wouldn't "rat her out" and she just tokes some time approaching him to make sure he didn't had any ties with her co-workers beforehand. And she finally found someone she could share her story with. And this is why I hate adults(evne though I'm one now)
@@DJM3D honestly. i'm not in that position... but i do have a goofy little spy camera that all of a sudden makes me think in the right situation its not so goofy
Abuse is something that I have had to deal with many times, be it sexual, physical, psychological. These are horrible experiences, but for me nothing compared to the level of hurt I felt when my "superiors" belittled my work to bully me. The reason for this is because in the past I had based the entirety of my worth as human being on my professional skills (horrible idea, do not recommend). One specific employer was especially aware of that weakness and decided to categorize all work I submitted in three folders labeled as a. acceptable, b. to be fixed, c. absolute trash. Whenever he felt like pressuring me he would put all my stuff in b. and c., then reprimand me for being lazy and not loving my work enough. I remember crying on the way back home and being unable to do anything. The thing is, I did not leave for a long time. Why? Because people like that make you feel like you are so completely and utterly worthless that you start believing that there is no abuse going on, that you are too soft and ungrateful for not appreciating the favor they are doing to you by employing you. Everything you do starts looking like utter crap, even your breath seems to be taking up too much space. The abuse eats deep into your soul. Even if you are privileged enough to be able to do without the money, it is very hard to stand up for yourself. When I first read the title of the video I got very nervous because I was not sure what to expect. The majority of abuse related advice out there is rarely helpful. Fortunately, your perspective is compassionate and meaningful, the kind of thing I would have liked my old self to watch. I am thankful that you approached the issue in such an honest and respectful way, especially because the subject was so triggering that I wouldn't have managed to watch this talk in its entirety otherwise. Just, thank you for being you and sharing the precious thought you have.
I haven't started the video yet, but as someone who has also gone through sexual, physical, and psychological abuse many, many times, you put together what it feels like to be abused so eloquently. Even though the abuse you described is about being abused as a worker, I can still understand it as a description for child abuse and other things. Thank you for making this comment, I'm not so worried about watching this video now :)
the common denominator in reporting a superior to HR is it gives the company the opportunity to know who to fire. and its never the one who is causing the problems. whether its abuse, incompetence, sheer fraud, etc. HR should stand for "health reduction" because anyone who depends on them for their emotional or physical safety will find themselves losing sleep and losing years off their lifespan. its ludicrous that they brainwash young kids with "if you ever have any issues please tell me" nonsense.
@@flipnap2112 It's a lot better in Europe, at least in Germany - where worker protection is much stronger and HR (and by extension the whole company) leaves themselves open to some serious lawsuits if they don't help out in some degree. But obviously, bigger companies can afford to spook you with lawyer costs and get their way anyway a lot of the time.
@@sertaki Even in Germany, I experienced HR departments being short of the human factor. There is a lot of exploitation in EU capitals, of the younger EU working force. Like if you end up in an English speaking company in a city like Berlin, you are likely to be exploited in one way or another unless you have German friends opening your eyes to your rights, and even as an EU citizen. HR won't be there to help you in such cases, at least not in my experience
People are who they choose to be. They are the choices they make. Unfortunately, many people are not aware that the choices they make are crappy and make them a crappy person. People are not gods but we do have the opportunity to become heroes or villains. Most heroes are flawed in some way though.
@@legionluciano wow, nice wisdom right there. I usually remind myself of the Bruce Lee quote: take what's useful, reject what's useless and add what's uniquely your own.
Spot on Adam, fantastic video. I feel I’ve been fortunate with the teams I’ve been on since I’ve never witnessed anything that crossed a line but it’s a completely different story for most of the women I know.
@@Rhedrigues Even if you don't get a response from Marc or anyone, know for yourself what you're getting into. If you're comfortable then you're fine if not then don't. If the sheer idea of the allegations at blizzard irks you, then apply elsewhere. If someone says a building is on fire you probably wouldn't walk in right? Thats about it hope you find success
Thank you for the realization. There are unfortunately a ton of people who think that if they never experienced an issue, that it doesn’t happen to other people. Hope all this empathy especially from people with a platform like you changes things.
wow. i’m a 19 y/o that just switched majors to pursue concept art for games, so ever since this activision blizzard debacle started going down i’ve been feeling a little numb and lost about my future. you brought me and a lot of people a lot of clarity. thank you, from the bottom of my heart
No. Being a concept artist is awesome. Keep on it and don't put too much thought into this kind of issue. Most places do not work like this so don't get in the "they're after me" mindset. That will only sabotage you. Good luck dude!
I hope you find a cool crew there are lots out there. This video is to help you spot the bad apples and get outta there cause you don't need to take this BS. Art is a job like any job and nobody deserves to be abused.
Don't feel discouraged. First off, I'm very proud of you for being so young and deciding to change majors to do something you love. That takes a lot of courage to do. Secondly, after getting into the gaming industry I've learned very quickly that most places aren't like that and it is so very unfortunate its in the biggest studios. I wanted to work at Riot and Blizzard for so many years. But someone steered me to another AAA studio when I graduated and I love being here so very much. Being a junior fresh out of school, I tried to hide my mental struggles with imposter syndrome but it was taking a huge toll. At some point my managers and leads took me aside to check on me, worried about my mental and physical health. In this huge studio, I felt seen and cared for. I felt like I mattered. I see the cultures changing for the better at other studios. So try not to fret.
Very important point on HR. Never trust HR in the private sector, they always represent the needs of the business over that of the employee's. Start working as young as you can so you can build up a bullshit meter, that way when you've done your schooling and ready to get into your industry of choice, you have a much better chance of picking up on toxic work environments, especially during your interview(s). It's also a great lesson that if you find two jobs of equal need/experience, one may be with a smaller company and pay less but the environment was great, the other bigger with more pay but toxic, take the first. Toxic environments are poison for most but incredibly damaging for creatives.
Adam, your humanitarian perspective, and your speaking out about it without fear of industry backlash, is inspiring. I'm one of the aspiring artists you referred to whose looking to break into video games, but I come from a career in film & TV, where I ran into exactly the kind of work environments you're describing, many times. So you have my empathy for what you went through, and my thanks for giving me a heads up re. the industry I'm working to get into. From a long-time subscriber, please keep doing what you do!
What you explained about the experience of getting into a company of people you adore, suspiciously sounds exactly like a cult. One tactic to never fall into situations like that is not adoring people but only their work. Once you start adoring a person, you make heros out of them and ignore their mistakes and wrong doings. I would recommend TheraminTrees' videos on the psychology of these situations.
I definitely will Ego - thank you! And you’re spot-on, over-adoring anything often leads to an unhealthy relationship with anything, be it people, places or things..
These revelations about Blizzard are jarring. As a woman trying to get into the film/video game industry this definitely opened my eyes. I won't quit on my dream but I'll definitely be more aware about this.
I would also say it has a lot to do with how you look. Yes I know that sounds sexist as hell, but it's a sad truth that if you are more attractive you probably are more likely to get harrassed. I can only speak for me of course but I'm not beautiful, not even pretty and never got harassed at my workplace, but perhaps I just got lucky with my colleagues and bosses. :P
@@Valfara770 True, but I think that might be a little different in environments such as Blizzard. It seems like the men don't care who they are talking about and they'll still rate how appealing you are. If the boss put that front desk lady in vulnerable position I can only imagine how bad it these coworkers can get. I imagine there will always be idiots like them in every workplace, but these idiots don't even hide themselves. I understand what you mean about "beautiful" being the textbook model look, but I've been hit on before and I am nothing like a model. However, it wasn't in a working environment. Workplaces usually stifle flirtations and harassment by coworkers because they need to be ethical but Blizzard's environment seems to promote this harassment.
As a female working in the vfx industry it's definitely tough out there for us because it's much more difficult to be taken seriously at your job, but do not lose hope, things are slowly changing for the better
I remember when i was going through my Game Art major we dead ass had a “Intro to Game Dev” class where the sole purpose was to highlight horrible business practices of the game’s industry in the hopes of sparring our lives… many of us did not listen
When my proffesor asked my class what they wanted to work in when they made it in the industry. Many mentioned big name companies, though at the time i saw a bit of these issues before they became way out of hand as of today. It was that day i chose to work with small indie companies or simply form my own small company. I just simply want to create stories to leave cool and memorable experiences like these games left me. To make something no matter how small ik someone will enjoy it.
My freind has been talking about how toxic the industry is for years, the discrimination, the over sexual stuff, the cool kids getting the jobs. 🙄 ugh there is a few studies that are like this, I want to get in local studies soooo bad but and grow and be paid while growing my skill but all the people in these studies act like it's the VIP section in a club....the kicker is I went to art school with at least 2 or 3 people in each studio have them on fb and ig non of them...f it you guys know were I'm going people are even in the nerd industry where I felt I would fit in.
Same here like I want to work p. Some bigger projects but at the some time I want to have control over the stuff that I create and I don’t want to be fixed to a studio. I want to create stuff that I came up with and that I am passionate about
Adam, you're the father I never had. I grew up with an abusive, mentally unstable father who abused me for over 20 years, and I had no direction in life because of it. But your talks have played such a huge role in me finding myself. I don't feel as unstable anymore, because I know kind people like you exist, and now I have raised the bar high up because of you. I hope you stay in the best shape and health possible, and may god bless you with whatever you wish for.
Thank you for speaking out about this. I keep on hearing case after case about sexual abuse in these workplaces and its got me absolutely terrified about joining this workforce as a female artist. You advice helped me put things back in perspective
Wow. What an eye opener. I'm 21. I've never been able to wrap my head around the fact that adults act like bullies in the playground. The story of the man getting pushed on the floor, like seriously? Are u guys in high school? I'm under half an hour into your video Adam. Everytime you mention a story I stop and think, how' I feel if I was the woman you spoke of, or you yourself with the story of the Art director taking Credit for work that YOU did. My God, I thought grown-ups were, y'know, grownup, but this is absurd but not laughable, it's disgusting. I noticed that I've been cringing with a scowl on my face while you were telling your stories and other peoples'. I am in disbelief.
It's the video game business - historically, what have video games had to do with growing up? I've seen this as a pattern with other companies; gossipy RUclips channel companies, net porn, they're started by people who pursued things that reflected their refusal to mature. And the more successful they got, they less anyone could say no to them.
running the risk of overstepping my boundaries, let me thank you for this talk from the perspective of someone who never got such a sober overview of work life from my parents. I think this might fill such a void for many people from less than healthy homes, mr Adam. Cause i see this mentality a lot from the generation teaching us: 'If only i could get x or y job' and people working their asses off, rushing through their precious life for a goal and a vision of an experience entirely constructed in their own expectations. No wonder it doesn't match with reality, and a lot of people are ill-equipped to deal with it. So, thank you for putting your wisdom out here, we sorely need some of it. And one final thing. I'm 25, just started art from scratch 2 years ago, and i'm just now getting my portifolio ready. Before i was in the healthcare industry, studying and aiming to work at that carreer. And to the surprise of no one, it's exactly the same. People that have money and power reveal themselves real quick, and you see a lot of stinky fish around.
My experience with HR departments is 100% in line with yours. They are there to protect and serve the company/boss. Not to help the employees at all. I've been fired just like you described. Went to HR over something that was blatantly unacceptable, and was fired the next day after having a ton of work piled on my desk. By the way, I don't work in the gaming, art, or movie industries. This kind of behavior isn't limited to those industries. From what I've seen, it's rampant in most industries.
One of my worst fears before at finding a job was that my skill level wasn't enough.... oh boy how wrong I was. I'm gald to have seen this video before bumping into a toxic enviroment in the industry. Thank you Adam for the anectdote and the warning, it's refreshing to be able to see things from a new perspective.
Heard horror stories about Activision from fellow alumni who did manage to get jobs there and worked on the the recent revival of a certain purple dragon from my childhood. Made me nope out and go the indie game route right after finishing my Game Art degree. I'd add that this toxic culture is brought over to art schools if the classes are taught by those who either work for the big studios or have recently worked there. I can't count the number of times I or someone else was berated/mocked in front of the entire class and nothing of consequence happens to the instructor.
I totally relate. I worked in the industry for over 16 years and saw alot of stupid B.S as well. It was weird to see how big the egos on nerds could get. Yes nerds, because most elite game devs are just glamorized NERDS, who have fragile egos and don't know how to act once they reach a level of authority and influence. As for HR, yes it is the legal dept. Their title says it all : You are a "Human Resource" and every resource is replaceable. This is why you must do your own art, but always know art is something can you DO, not who you are. You are SO much more.
That blizzard tragedy made me seriously reconsider pursuing concept art. Like I am making a grave mistake trying to enter that industry because I know how vulnerable I could be against abusive people. Coming from a... somewhat abusive family I know how hard it is to set your boundaries and actually enforce them. (heck, I didn't even realize boundaries were a thing I was allowed to have and to fight for until I entered therapy...) The biggest lessons I learned throughout the years: -How someone acts towards you is not a reflection of you, it's a reflection of them. -don't tolerate abuse. Even from yourself. Especially from yourself. -listen to your anger/indignation. They are signs that will tell you that someone has crossed a line. -follow up on that, guilt is a toxic and powerful feeling that is far too easy to wield against you. (this is a hard one I know. and I'm still struggling with it myself to be honest) -be proud of yourself of the things you did the way you'd be proud for your friend if they accomplished the same things This was longer than intended, but I hope those tidbits can help.
Guilt isn't a toxic feeling. Guilt is important to know when you've done something wrong, and that can lead to accountability, self-improvement and empathy for others. Guilt is a pro-social feeling, people who don't allow themselves to feel it can be narcissistic and blame others for their actions instead of taking responsability. What is toxic is when, due to some vulnerability on your part, your guilt becomes a tool for other people to manipulate you. Perhaps because you're insecure, perhaps because you're lonely, perhaps believe you deserve to be treated like trash just because you made a mistake, but the thing is, we can make mistakes, we can feel guilty, but we can still be forgiven and be allowed the benefit of the doubt to make amends and fix our wrongdoings. The inability to be forgiven isn't something that reflects on you, it's something that reflects on the person that isn't able to forgive you. You can feel guilty and you can be guilty, you can be in the wrong and you can be in the position that you need to make up for it, but that doesn't make you deserving to be abused, it doesn't make you unlovable, it doesn't turn you into a bad person and it doesn't obligate you into complying to other people's unreasonably harsh judgements and expectations, it doesn't make it so that the only way for you to make up for it and get rid of that guilt is to be degraded.
@@Knightgil I was raised to feel guilty whenever I didn't comply (for any demands or requests) and saying "no" would have been a guaranteed sh*tshow. So yeah, my relationship with guilt is skewed. I like your take on what guilt is, though. It's way more nuanced and reasonable than my view. Thank you for sharing your insight
[TW: MENTIONS OF CH*LD AB*SE] i really appreciate you speaking on such a serious issue weirdly enough you kinda gave me some hope with this video because i’m such a vulnerable person esp bc i’m autistic* so when you were describing that situation where you land your dream job and start getting harassed i was thinking “i probably wouldn’t say anything if i really needed that job” but, and no hate to anyone who has ever stayed silent bc i completely get it since i was abused as a child and stayed silent for years, you helped me realise it doesn’t have to be like that. that the toxic environment i could potentially end up in doesn’t have to be my only option. sorry this was long but much love to you adam ❤️ *clarification: i’m not saying all autistic people are inherently vulnerable, i don’t know that for a fact. all i know is my autism makes me extremely trusting and people have taken advantage of that. all the same, there’s still hope because i managed to learn for the most part from those situations.
My son has ADHD and was even tested for autism himself - I can definitely see where you could be a bit more vulnerable, especially emotionally When it comes to ab*se - you can further victimize yourself by feeling shame for the abuse, but you shouldn’t - the abuse, although it happened to you - is something entirely outside of you, done by someone else So being open about it isn’t uncomfortable to others, it’s impressive and empowering
Many HR youtubers do talk about this, that it is a common misconception that HR is there to guard the interests of the employees. It is NOT, in fact it's there for the employer. If you need your interests guarded as an employee, unionise.
Finally you've always hovered around this topic and stories...I was always curious how and where all this happened...I can understand how hard it must be to share all this... you're an inspiration man
I need to add up one more thing, NEVER take on a HUGE MORTGAGE that could tie and paralyze you from walking away from the situation that Adam had talked about.
Damn Adam, you really hit the nail on the head with this one. Many of us are so driven by the goal of getting the “job” that we forget about the environment we will be entering. Thank you my friend.
The heading pulled me in. Then I saw "1 hour" and thought that was long for a video, but started watching anyway. Before I knew it the hour was gone. Man, that was engaging. Literally loved every second of it. Thanks for that. Will never forget it.
Can i say that some artists i follow and who give also good nuggets of wisdom sometimes just fall for me for that? It's just a reflex, therefore you never know whether to follow their advices or not
The only time I started fighting back was when I started believing I have self worth as a human being. I always believed I was a weak artist who didn't deserved the job I got and that as someone so lucky I don't deserve to complain. Thing is it doesn't matter if you were a good or bad artist, people deserve basic human decency and respect. Professionalism in the workplace is a must and the job of a supervisor is to help you succeed not terrorize you.
This was a real eye opener for a lot of people. There are articles of companies subjecting their employees to unrealistic work hours because of deadlines and rumors of abuse but we all brush it off. It is never ok for this type of thing to happen, I have met people like this and they blame victims for not being able to speak out and talk about their trauma and its disgusting. You said everything in the best way possible. Yes it's our identity its what we sacrifice so much for but we need to value ourselves enough to say no because we can find other opportunities. That one yes was enough to prove that we are good enough. Whoever needs to hear this, please know that you are good enough!
I've never worked in the gaming industry, but I have worked in the graphic design & animation industries, and have seen/experienced this type of horrendous behavior. By people who will grind the humanity from you until you're an emotional husk. And why? Because they're on 24-7 power trips, and like vampires, need to suck life from others in order to maintain their own inflated existence (and deeply hidden insecurities). A great video, and thank you Adam.
I think a part of me was waiting for an *artist* I knew to speak about this situation, and lo and behold, here you are. Thank you, so so much, because when you started describing the kid who idolized Blizzard games and the studio, my younger self woke up and started inserting themself into the story you told. I can so easily see that version of myself falling into that trap, and frankly it's both scary and a relief to be able to recognize it. I'm just about to head into art school, and I really don't know where my art will take me, but I know I'm going to hold your advice close. You're always an amazing teacher, thank you again
All those stories sound like "If you ever own a studio, never expand too much. Limit it and keep is kinda small". And i love this. The more people you have around you at work, the higher the chanches there are asshats. Smaller groups are much easier to manage and it keeps a particular climate, imo.
Holy sh*t you're insanely immersive and spot on, the video actually felt like 10 mins! Now I want to collect enough money even faster to sign up for the mentorship (not sponsored lol)
I was sought out by 3 bigger gaming companies in my city. Never took the job because I knew of the toxic environment (sexual, overworking, stealing credit, underpaid). And saw people in tears talking of what goes on there and not being able to do anything about it. I kept freelancing and I will continue freelancing. Fuck companies. Also, this happens in most companies.
Just dont get too big yourself other wise you will have to make decisions that might lead down a bad road you wont have control over.....blizzard entertainment started small and then got big and now look at it.....just hold onto your values and never compromise
Truly, good for you! I wish I had gone down this route sooner in my life. I will never make the mistake of working for someone else again. Not in the “traditional”, “9-5” sense, at least. If I do, it will be a tough vetting process where I’m honestly going to be interviewing them lol. Wishing you continued prosperity
@@thewriterforge For all you know, Blizzard might have started as a team of bro fratboys, and just became a team of bro fratboys who abuse lots of people now that they're rich.
Makes me realize and be grateful for being fortunate enough to have landed in one of those smaller great studios right away... I may want to still dip my toes into a big studio one day but only for the experience. I have already found my Zen where I am. Great video!
I don't work in design/game industry, but this still resonate with me greatly.. Felt like I just went to office for the first day. So naïve and happy... not knowing how this job will suck out my soul in a few years.
I've been working in an indie studio for 2 years and I've been enjoying every working day so far. But it's my first job and I'm often told it should just be a starting point, and I should be thinking about what's coming next. I honestly don't aspire to much more for now, our team is great and the small scope means I'm working on diverse subjects and bringing a lot of myself to the final games. Your video made me feel better about it, I think I'll stay as long as I'll be happy doing the job. Thank you Adam !
When I was a kids in the late 90's early 2000's, when asked "What do you want to do when you grew up?" I would say "I want to create stories and worlds at Blizzard". They were the *Golden Boy* of the industry! Seeing how the company has fallen over the years, and now this, really makes it surreal for me and other thousands now in our late 20's...
You most likely want to renew this Golden Era and create your own studio and work with passionate, like-minded individuals. We need MORE of the SMALLER game studios. This is how true gems were created in the first place, before the rampant extreme capitalism and massive cash grab ruined it.
@@azuretigers5562 agreed. Many folks in general, across all industries, are starting to ditch companies and building their own businesses. Especially devs in games. As I see it, if you have knowledge, you have the potential to make a business. The other option is to give someone else your knowledge and watch them make triple (Likely more) than what they pay you, even though you’re the one that actually put in the work
That advice at the end is absolutely precious. To look at companies as relationships than can be healthy or toxic is a very solid perspective to look at it from. Thank you for this lesson Adam, hearing about other people's experiences within the work environment is priceless knowledge to have as someone aspiring to work in the field!
There’s a scene in the animation series “Tuca and Bertie” or rather episodes depicting these situations, while not a Video game company it was on a Bakery where Tuca finally gets to work with this famous Baker she idolized for years. Turns out he isn’t the great guy that she thought and he started to further cross the intimate lines and act out his power on her. Thank you for this video, since I do want to work in the gaming industry someday it’s good to hear these warnings
It sucks that so many artists seem to have gone through that amount of ab*se and that those in charge got away with it for so long. I´m glad that people now speak out about it so it can hopefully result in changes in that industry.
So, I am far below any of your commenters. No skills other than editing and the amorphous skill of 'being a writer'. I wanted to get into Blizzard (specifically) as a writer/quest designer. I.. never did anything, really, to help me do that, other than get a 'writing' degree woohoo. But I wrote a lot. I tried to improve my writing, I went to classes, tried to get published, failed. Failure upon failure, but I was trying. My aim was to get into blizzard. I never got in past the first interview. Obviously, of course, I had no skills. I designed a game, here and there, wrote a few things. A blizzard recruiter at Blizzcon, drunk, laughed at my face and told me to 'come back in two years'. Humiliating.. but I felt like I deserved it, for being such a fuck-up. I slowly lost my dream of becoming a Blizzard (anything) when my friends around me started to get into the industry. They started to tell me about how they loved working in their spots but it wasn't like the dream. Sometimes it was exhausting, toxic, and a lot of my girl-friends (not girlfriends) told me about the creeps in their offices. I thought, whatever, you guys are sensitive.. suck it up. You're living my dream, shut up. Then I started watching Jim Sterling, and the stuff about crunch started to become publicizied, then the Kotaku article about Riot, not to mention the people I idolized, when I met them.. sometimes turned out to just be.. drunk.. creeps. I still wanted to be a developer.. though the motivation to that dream had faded a little. Then the stuff against Blizzard came out and.. honestly, it feels like I've lost a part of myself. I stopped 'worshipping' Blizzard after that recruiter laughed in my face, but I still liked the company a lot. Some other youtuber said this better but. You know how you were probably looked down on and bullied because you were a gamer? And how we became 'proud' to be gamers in that aspect, as a form of defense? Blizzard being this made them right to bully us. The people we wanted to be and worshipped were abusers and enablers. We should of been ashamed to like these people, to identify as their supporters. So that's why it hurts. Nobody will read this essay but it's kind of for me, to spell out my feelings about the whole thing.
I'm so sorry but when you said about your friends talked about how tiring, toxic and female friends mentioning creeps in their office AND you said to suck it up... I was like, "You were such a jerk, do you know how scary and real being sexually assault everywhere you go no matter what or where you go?" (no offense, keyword is "were")
@@durratulaishah3703 yeah it was a cruel and bitter way of thinking I grew out of. I guess I would have been a pretty bad co worker if I actually did make it
I’m deeply sad about all those stories, some of them was so close from me, I felt like the ground crumble under my feet… Strange to say but I’m a lucky once… surround by amazing peoples in a big black hole industry. Thank you for making this video!
I wish I could have had this advice 20 years ago. I don't work in the Art / Game Industry, I'm a graphic motion graphics designer but similar things happen and have happened. Thank you Adam, everyone should have the luck of getting advice like this.
"The places i loved to work were not the biggest one, like EA or Disney". Many people should realize that their value is much more higher (i hope) of their curriculum. You do not have to fear the dealing of no job. We live in an economy that does not allow you to die without something to eat, so DECIDE with your heart you career, but then you should also start to reason with your BRAIN. You are selling your services, your art, and they're just buying it. If you do not want to make deals with the buyer, just go ahed and serve the next client. No one should find itself in situation like these. We as artists value more of these people. They probably have just much more money than you, but you are bigger in everything esle, so if you are a better person (and you probably are) you will surely have a better career, just do not leave you career path because of such dickheads.
Although my advice isn’t meant to deter anyone going into the gaming industry - I feel it’s an important tool that every professional should have at their disposal - walking in with a bit of street-smarts is useful
Hey Adam. Thank you for today’s video. It truly is sad to see how employees, honestly no matter the industry, are treated in such poor and and reprehensible manners. Most of my professional experience has been working for myself. I landed my first job, and I quickly saw how upper management would mistreat people, take advantage, and literally try to make the employee feel crazy for valid feelings such as feeling unsafe, being taken advantage of, abused and etc. It is the reason I quit and I do not plan to work for anyone else really because everyone I speak to, and everywhere I look (in terms of media covering work place abuse), I see how these company’s mistreat people and how people are just like “This is just how it is”. Like, no, my love. S*** is only like this because we as a species and people allowed it to be. There is no part of nature and laws of the universe that state work-life should be this way. There is no law in the universe that says we must treat each other in such damaging and disrespectful ways either. It truly is sad, and I highly support you speaking out. More and more people will come to realize the truths that come with a “traditional” job, and there will be a reckoning (Non-violent, hopefully) for these companies. I hope everyone has a beautiful day
I’m sad to hear that your first live experience was such a negative one - very bad luck there Although I too am self-employed and have had bad experiences, I mostly loved my career and colleagues - do t let one bad egg spoil the whole batch
Human Resources is neither 'Human' nor a 'Resource'. Their only role is to protect the company. Absolute Facts. My blood is boiling on your experience with HR.
Hi Adam, just want to let you know I really a appreciate the video and the subject matter you’ve chosen. Until recently I’ve been super clear on my goal of wanting to become a concept artist or even an illustrator in the industry, basing my education around this path with blizzard being on the top of the list due to my close proximity to their headquarters here in California, but with this whole scandal kind of opening my eyes and finding out this kind of thing isn’t too uncommon in the industry, I’ve been in limbo and haven’t been able to bring myself to draw at all for the past few days, close to a week and have been more or less feeling kind of useless and unsure of what to do. Even as I’m still listening to the video, just the “and how to protect yourself” part of the title has me inspired to put on the glove, pick up the pen, and draw!
as a smaller guy who has had this happen, it really sucks that noone speaks up. Also having worked with big companies AND EA as well, still the best companies ive worked for were the smaller indie companies. Learned so much in such a good environment!
I am an artist too. when I got fired I was told that It was not because of my performance Just that I was not the right cultural fit for the company. Literally went home and googled "cultural fit".
I frikkin hate that. It's like that in the film industry aswell. You might just not get hired because you weren't funny enough.... Like... I'm here to carry the lights and help set them up... really makes you feel that the industry doesn't actually care if the end result is good, or if you're even fast enough to help save money.
I, an artist, wanted to work at Blizzard and Disney when I was younger too, but over the years as I discovered their corruption and/or overall lack of care for the passion of artists, I kind of grew out of them. I've always had a side thing I adore working on, characters that I would make to tell my own stories, so I didn't lose my way. I guess I was just hoping that these companies may give me the chance some day for me to step up and do my own passions while they fund me. Quite the delusional dream it was, but I'm glad I was able to establish these side projects for myself on my own. Made the whole discovery of the corruption of these big name companies easier to deal with. Still at a loss of direction financially but I do hope I am able to bring these projects of mine into light in a way that can support me. Thank you for such a insightful video. I loved listening to the entire hour. You're a really good storyteller! O:
I too wanted Blizzard, i love WoW since i was a 10 year old. Illusions destroyed and a new path ahead. I guess we gotta construct our identity not around people or even things or goals, but in our origins. Might be unpopular what i´m about to say, but my identity is in Christ, so nothing in this world is more valuable than my standarts. I feel bad for all the women that suffer these things, good people gotta open more good studios, so that nobody has to surrender to such bad companies. We can build Blizzards of ourselves, y´´know?
Thank you for this. I am one of the women something similar has happened to. It might not have been a star studio but it was my first serious industry job and back then i didnt even realized how much abuse has happened there. It caused me a huge depression and i have quit my passion that was art for years after.. i honestly never even understood what happened. It never occured to me that i have lost my identity but now that you said it its clear as day. I hope more people see this. Keep up your great work!
The fact that most of the studios put artists under a contract that they can't even discuss the name of the studio anywhere at all. Yes, there is such a thing.
Just an aspiring artist and it was a relief to hear this, the fact that I am not really fixated on something ,but just like doing art made me sceptical if I m passionate enough! Thankyou it did clear a lot!
HR is NOT for the employees.. HR DOES NOT have your back.... HR is to protect the company.... Take notes from this video!! I wish that I had this video 4 years ago. I have gone through some fucking moments of horror.. After coming home from war, I lost everything.. hit road blocks in the tech field.... and my art is what I have .. being an artist and seeing other artists make it keeps me inspired. I will take 2023 to focus on my portfolio. Thank you greatly
some of these stories remind me so much of the power trips I've seen and experienced through my career from superiors. Workplace harassments, hazing, and bullying is something that's plagued this industry from so much of what I would call the old guard, and I feel like I could write a book of what I've seen. I really hope we can set an example that we wont stand for it anymore especially since we have so many new faces entering the industry. They don't deserve to go through that shit.
You are the only youtuber with whom I can spend hours listening to you and continue wanting more (well and the podcasts of Feng Zhu haha). Your videos are really deep and I thank you from the bottom of my heart, Adam.
Human Affairs is why I lost one of my jobs, and I worked at a factory! Human Affairs has no love from me. It's stories like this that actually scare me about getting into the creative industry.
I'm not artistic, have no desire to work for a gaming company, and randomly found this video but I sat through it. The truth you spilled is so profound. I low-key needed to hear it.
It was worth every minute I spent watching to it. I'm not an artist but unfortunately this kind of thing happens in every big dream company. Thanks for sharing
I've not worked too long professionally (just about 2-4 years), but one thing I've realised and assure myself of nowadays is: "I'd rather be a good person, than a great artist." Regardless of sub count or views Adam, yours is one of the most valuable art channels and content creators on RUclips. Your channel is one of those that I think any modern artist can benefit from. Thank you for saying so many things that we artists need to hear but are hardly said so candidly or in such a straightforward, genuine manner.
Man, some these anecdotes are really scary. I knew that most companies are probably run by criminals that have hired a bunch of enablers to keep things smooth for them, but damn. But I think it's best for us not to be deterred by this, with today's society there are other ways to achieve your goals.
I know I'm late to this video but I just wanted to say that I thought your discussion on this topic to be very moving. The picture you painted was absolutely on point. Being a 20+ year veteran of the industry I cannot convey how important it is to see someone with your experience make a video like this for up and coming artists. Sadly some of your stories are all too familiar to my own when I was coming up. With more candid conversation like this, I like to think that we are slowly making headway to a healthier industry (but we still have a long way to go). Thanks for this Adam
The moment you spoke about the secretary, I swear I was ready to throw hands. Holy fuck that made me ANGRY. Especially since she was obviously so professional and patient, but how?? How can you put up with something so vile?
Probably because she couldn't change jobs immediately. Being able to just quit and search without having to worry about financial stability is a privilege many aren't aware of. I hope she got away from that place fast.
This is one of if not the most important video l've ever watched in my life. It started with very important point on harassment and ended with just generally the wisest career track point of view/advice there is. There should be more kind and thoughtful people like you. Thank you!
As a freelancer artist myself working on Brazil (which normally is recipe for failure), your video give me motivation to keep going. Thanks man, i will never forget your words.
Watching this video should be obligatory school curriculum, thank you so much for what you've been doing for the community Adam, coming forward and speaking out. Respect.👏
I rly love the honesty and how u realistically talks about the industry. Its giving me the insight i need to mentally prepare before diving into the industry
Adam, I remember you mentioning the issues that you encountered in some studios on previous videos, and how you were kicked out on your birthday, but after hearing you talk about what happened to other people in there, I had no idea that it was that bad! I don’t know how I would manage to deal with all of that if I were in such situations... What you say really resonates with me, because I’ve been wondering what to do with my career for the near future, and you’ve pretty much said what I have been thinking for some time. I would like to try to join a studio for some years, to gain some experience and skills. But knowing myself, freelancing might be better for me (even though I know how tough it is and how much I hate administrative paperwork). And ultimately, my big dream is not to work in this or that studio, but to become good enough, maybe the best that I could be without getting into a burnout, to create what I want without feeling limited because of my skills. Create my own stuff, my own dream, like a kid who suddenly can bring to life his own stories with quality...Well, and get some money while doing that so I can eat! I have just quitted my job of 10 years as a college professor to properly practice my skills, and while I didn’t like my job and didn’t “blossom” in that field, I couldn’t have asked for better colleagues and work environment. Don’t get me wrong, academia has its own problems as well, any field has its issues. But I’ve avoided getting into trouble and participating in “office politics”, I was never afraid to go to work, to speak with a colleague, or discuss with my superior. The most toxic and problematic year I can think of is miles away from what is happening in some studios. And after teaching at university level for so long, the last place I want to work at is somewhere that oozes of frat boy culture. Those parts at 21:58 and 40:50 are a big “no-no, time to run away” for me: that terrifies me. I will not do well at all in that kind of environment (by the way, I love your slightly over the top acting: I think your animator past really comes out in those moments!). I am afraid that could be the norms in most big studios, because in that case I don’t want to work there. I don’t know if all of this is going to change anything in the industry. I’m rather cynical, I am pretty sure that anyone guilty at Blizzard will receive a slap in the hand and a golden parachute. Everybody will forget after some months, and they’ll go and work at some other big studio. So nothing will change. And about confronting your abuser, I am even more pessimistic and say that the worst case scenario is not “we’re letting you go because you’re not a good fit for the company”. The worst case scenario is “we’re letting you go because you’re not a good fit for the company, AND on your back, we will blacklist you and tell all of our friends, in all of those other big studios, what a c*nt you are so either a)we’re crippling your chances to find work again in this industry or b)we’ll try to make your next job even more miserable!”. But, lucky for me (I guess?), I don’t have a dream studio in mind. I never dreamed about Blizzard, EA, or Ubisoft: they are just options. It could be problematic if I want to join some concept art program to brush up my skills and they ask “so, which studio(s) would you like to work at later?”. I guess I’ll answer “a studio where I like what I do, where I can improve my skills month after month, without toxic workplace, with great colleagues, and good salary. Doesn’t matter if it is a small or big studio. Oh, and in a city with super public transportation, that is definitely a big plus!”. Or just go freelance. And in that case it’s up to me to become good enough at something so clients and studios will come to me directly because they’ll need my skills.
10:43 This is all across the creative industry whether its Art, Animation, Motion Graphics, Video Editing, you name it. A Massive problem that needs to be addressed
So glad I got this recommended to me. I don't work in the industry (just a normal uni student, am in my last year in my bachelor's degree in anthropology) but have always been interested in video games for almost a decade now. I almost cried when hearing the news about Blizzard and that poor woman sadly killing herself due to the company's ''culture''. Your perspective and empathy is fantastic and necessary, and I love how you speak the hard truths - very refreshing to hear and made me also realize some things within myself. Another daily reminder to never idolize anyone - you'll just end up being disappointed all the time.
I am so glad that my big studio experience so far was at Mojang, where it was a greatly rewarding position and the culture on the art team was fantastic. But at the same time, I have a friend who is very much reeling from the experience she had at a different big studio, and the blind-eye and excuses that people there gave her when she spoke up about it, and I feel furious on her behalf. I really appreciate your advice on striving for a standard of quality, rather than striving for a specific job.
"Your endgame shouldn't be a location or a company, but a standard that you adhere to and respect"
thank you for this video
I think this video established what your boss didn't like about you. You were too big to be physically bullied and intimidated
Maybe - maybe - you might be on to something
Been there. games industry also
" *groan* looks like HR recruited another gigachad...there should be one alpha and it should be only ME"
Man when I heard about the dude pushing the other dude I had to take a break. I swear I was shaking, because I know that would be the moment I would lose my job and it sucks. I mean, why do people opt to behave like assholes at that level always baffles me. Is it insecurity? Fuck. That. Noise.
@@inklinedecline sometimes these folks can make the job not worth it. one day i was talking to my wife and she told me as much. it will vary person to person because i had similar situation after being moved across the country. that adds a level of difficulty since no one pays you to move back home. these bully know it and they prey on people. its sick and people need to change. dont chop off branches thinking its just games. its people in general unfortunately.
Just the fact that you talk for an hour straight with proper sentences and well thought points. This is amazing.
Lol - easier said than done :) (took me multiple takes)
@@AdamDuffArt Jesus, I hope you are okay, I tried recording a 30 min audio file and that was a complete nightmare. Also the part about where you tell about a dream job and how the art director comes to you and says "we made the right choice" just gave me goosebumps and a sour taste in my mouth because that probably happens once in 20 years in big studios. Thanks for the video again.
Professor vibes.
man... your story about the secretary is something I've seen over and over again in my previous corporate jobs. Absolutely disgusting. Really makes you wonder about all the unreported instances of abuse we'll never hear about. Thanks for the video.
People need to start recording their HR meetings.
She absolutely only shared her story when she trusted him because she knows if she shared that story with just anyone she'll be made fun of for being "too sensitive over nothing" and "you're not even hot why do you think anyone's looking at you".
@@seekittycat Is not a reason about making fun off... if she says to anyone who been in the company for longer than her, the boss will know eventually(cause everyone there works thre, and been there for quite a while now and know each other and are all brothers and have strong bounds). I would only be a matter of time before she becomes an outcast right away, and maybe lose her job in the process. Specially if her boss is the one who did it, you think anyone would stand and defend her against the boss and lose risking his/her job?
That's naive buddy... very naive...
On another hand, this guy in the video was a god send, because he did not had any ties with the company previously, and he was still new there, so she knew he wouldn't "rat her out" and she just tokes some time approaching him to make sure he didn't had any ties with her co-workers beforehand. And she finally found someone she could share her story with.
And this is why I hate adults(evne though I'm one now)
Did you miss the metoo movement? Its reported a lot, to the point peopel just started believing any accusation against any man
@@DJM3D honestly. i'm not in that position... but i do have a goofy little spy camera that all of a sudden makes me think in the right situation its not so goofy
Abuse is something that I have had to deal with many times, be it sexual, physical, psychological. These are horrible experiences, but for me nothing compared to the level of hurt I felt when my "superiors" belittled my work to bully me. The reason for this is because in the past I had based the entirety of my worth as human being on my professional skills (horrible idea, do not recommend).
One specific employer was especially aware of that weakness and decided to categorize all work I submitted in three folders labeled as a. acceptable, b. to be fixed, c. absolute trash. Whenever he felt like pressuring me he would put all my stuff in b. and c., then reprimand me for being lazy and not loving my work enough. I remember crying on the way back home and being unable to do anything.
The thing is, I did not leave for a long time. Why? Because people like that make you feel like you are so completely and utterly worthless that you start believing that there is no abuse going on, that you are too soft and ungrateful for not appreciating the favor they are doing to you by employing you. Everything you do starts looking like utter crap, even your breath seems to be taking up too much space. The abuse eats deep into your soul. Even if you are privileged enough to be able to do without the money, it is very hard to stand up for yourself.
When I first read the title of the video I got very nervous because I was not sure what to expect. The majority of abuse related advice out there is rarely helpful. Fortunately, your perspective is compassionate and meaningful, the kind of thing I would have liked my old self to watch. I am thankful that you approached the issue in such an honest and respectful way, especially because the subject was so triggering that I wouldn't have managed to watch this talk in its entirety otherwise.
Just, thank you for being you and sharing the precious thought you have.
You’re very welcome, and thank you for your courage in being so transparent with your experiences :)
Hope you're doing better, no one deserves that.
Hope you're in better place now...
We are far more than a collection of skills which allows us to work and get money.
People tend to drift away from people when they forget that.
I haven't started the video yet, but as someone who has also gone through sexual, physical, and psychological abuse many, many times, you put together what it feels like to be abused so eloquently. Even though the abuse you described is about being abused as a worker, I can still understand it as a description for child abuse and other things. Thank you for making this comment, I'm not so worried about watching this video now :)
"HR is not here to protect you, they are here to protect the big boss and company who pays for their yacht"
They are called "Human *Resources*" the emphasis is not on "human".
the common denominator in reporting a superior to HR is it gives the company the opportunity to know who to fire. and its never the one who is causing the problems. whether its abuse, incompetence, sheer fraud, etc. HR should stand for "health reduction" because anyone who depends on them for their emotional or physical safety will find themselves losing sleep and losing years off their lifespan. its ludicrous that they brainwash young kids with "if you ever have any issues please tell me" nonsense.
@@flipnap2112 It's a lot better in Europe, at least in Germany - where worker protection is much stronger and HR (and by extension the whole company) leaves themselves open to some serious lawsuits if they don't help out in some degree.
But obviously, bigger companies can afford to spook you with lawyer costs and get their way anyway a lot of the time.
@@sertaki What are they for then? To give you false hope so that you can continue working on a capital system?
@@sertaki Even in Germany, I experienced HR departments being short of the human factor. There is a lot of exploitation in EU capitals, of the younger EU working force. Like if you end up in an English speaking company in a city like Berlin, you are likely to be exploited in one way or another unless you have German friends opening your eyes to your rights, and even as an EU citizen. HR won't be there to help you in such cases, at least not in my experience
"Never meet your heroes kid because heroes are people and people are shit."
and companies are even shitier than people
Just don't idolize people you look up to. Be aware that humans are flawed and that's okay. Take the good, learn from the bad.
God you just gave me inspiration ty.
People are who they choose to be. They are the choices they make. Unfortunately, many people are not aware that the choices they make are crappy and make them a crappy person. People are not gods but we do have the opportunity to become heroes or villains. Most heroes are flawed in some way though.
@@legionluciano wow, nice wisdom right there. I usually remind myself of the Bruce Lee quote: take what's useful, reject what's useless and add what's uniquely your own.
Spot on Adam, fantastic video. I feel I’ve been fortunate with the teams I’ve been on since I’ve never witnessed anything that crossed a line but it’s a completely different story for most of the women I know.
@@Rhedrigues friend. Don't bet on a company. There are plenty of other projects to fulfil that dream.
@@Rhedrigues Even if you don't get a response from Marc or anyone, know for yourself what you're getting into. If you're comfortable then you're fine if not then don't. If the sheer idea of the allegations at blizzard irks you, then apply elsewhere. If someone says a building is on fire you probably wouldn't walk in right? Thats about it hope you find success
@@Rhedrigues I think this video answers your question :D (mostly at the end)
@@Rhedrigues This kind of stuff happens in every industry. My best advice is to stay strong, stand your guard and know your rights. 💯
Thank you for the realization. There are unfortunately a ton of people who think that if they never experienced an issue, that it doesn’t happen to other people. Hope all this empathy especially from people with a platform like you changes things.
wow. i’m a 19 y/o that just switched majors to pursue concept art for games, so ever since this activision blizzard debacle started going down i’ve been feeling a little numb and lost about my future. you brought me and a lot of people a lot of clarity. thank you, from the bottom of my heart
Don't feel discouraged. Some of us are trying to turn this shit around.
Good luck.
No. Being a concept artist is awesome. Keep on it and don't put too much thought into this kind of issue. Most places do not work like this so don't get in the "they're after me" mindset. That will only sabotage you. Good luck dude!
I hope you find a cool crew there are lots out there. This video is to help you spot the bad apples and get outta there cause you don't need to take this BS. Art is a job like any job and nobody deserves to be abused.
Don't feel discouraged. First off, I'm very proud of you for being so young and deciding to change majors to do something you love. That takes a lot of courage to do.
Secondly, after getting into the gaming industry I've learned very quickly that most places aren't like that and it is so very unfortunate its in the biggest studios. I wanted to work at Riot and Blizzard for so many years. But someone steered me to another AAA studio when I graduated and I love being here so very much. Being a junior fresh out of school, I tried to hide my mental struggles with imposter syndrome but it was taking a huge toll. At some point my managers and leads took me aside to check on me, worried about my mental and physical health. In this huge studio, I felt seen and cared for. I felt like I mattered.
I see the cultures changing for the better at other studios. So try not to fret.
Em, where can i find ur artwork?
Very important point on HR. Never trust HR in the private sector, they always represent the needs of the business over that of the employee's. Start working as young as you can so you can build up a bullshit meter, that way when you've done your schooling and ready to get into your industry of choice, you have a much better chance of picking up on toxic work environments, especially during your interview(s). It's also a great lesson that if you find two jobs of equal need/experience, one may be with a smaller company and pay less but the environment was great, the other bigger with more pay but toxic, take the first. Toxic environments are poison for most but incredibly damaging for creatives.
That is all VERY sound advice.
any tips for detecting stuff at the interview phase/early on?
Adam, your humanitarian perspective, and your speaking out about it without fear of industry backlash, is inspiring. I'm one of the aspiring artists you referred to whose looking to break into video games, but I come from a career in film & TV, where I ran into exactly the kind of work environments you're describing, many times. So you have my empathy for what you went through, and my thanks for giving me a heads up re. the industry I'm working to get into. From a long-time subscriber, please keep doing what you do!
What you explained about the experience of getting into a company of people you adore, suspiciously sounds exactly like a cult.
One tactic to never fall into situations like that is not adoring people but only their work. Once you start adoring a person, you make heros out of them and ignore their mistakes and wrong doings.
I would recommend TheraminTrees' videos on the psychology of these situations.
I definitely will Ego - thank you! And you’re spot-on, over-adoring anything often leads to an unhealthy relationship with anything, be it people, places or things..
A good example of this for me is liking Pogo's music but not his opinions/philosophy.
I was just thinking that. Like the whole introduction on the first day to the days that followed. Sounds like a lot of grooming.
These revelations about Blizzard are jarring. As a woman trying to get into the film/video game industry this definitely opened my eyes. I won't quit on my dream but I'll definitely be more aware about this.
Yess the key is to be aware and get out of toxic environments. Lots of great places may you find your awesome crew
I would also say it has a lot to do with how you look. Yes I know that sounds sexist as hell, but it's a sad truth that if you are more attractive you probably are more likely to get harrassed. I can only speak for me of course but I'm not beautiful, not even pretty and never got harassed at my workplace, but perhaps I just got lucky with my colleagues and bosses. :P
@@Valfara770 True, but I think that might be a little different in environments such as Blizzard. It seems like the men don't care who they are talking about and they'll still rate how appealing you are. If the boss put that front desk lady in vulnerable position I can only imagine how bad it these coworkers can get. I imagine there will always be idiots like them in every workplace, but these idiots don't even hide themselves. I understand what you mean about "beautiful" being the textbook model look, but I've been hit on before and I am nothing like a model. However, it wasn't in a working environment. Workplaces usually stifle flirtations and harassment by coworkers because they need to be ethical but Blizzard's environment seems to promote this harassment.
As a female working in the vfx industry it's definitely tough out there for us because it's much more difficult to be taken seriously at your job, but do not lose hope, things are slowly changing for the better
@@Weewoo5562 I'm having some faint hope for Blizzard since they have now two Co-leaders, one of which is female.
I remember when i was going through my Game Art major we dead ass had a “Intro to Game Dev” class where the sole purpose was to highlight horrible business practices of the game’s industry in the hopes of sparring our lives… many of us did not listen
Did you end up working in the gaming industry? If so how was/is it?
where did you study?
Same. They warn you, but your passion makes it hard to listen to the gravity of it.
You are lucky as hell, my Uni never taught me such a thing. You are basically beeing scammed while telling you a half truth.
When my proffesor asked my class what they wanted to work in when they made it in the industry. Many mentioned big name companies, though at the time i saw a bit of these issues before they became way out of hand as of today. It was that day i chose to work with small indie companies or simply form my own small company. I just simply want to create stories to leave cool and memorable experiences like these games left me. To make something no matter how small ik someone will enjoy it.
I totally get what you mean! it´s also what i would rather than big companies
My freind has been talking about how toxic the industry is for years, the discrimination, the over sexual stuff, the cool kids getting the jobs. 🙄 ugh there is a few studies that are like this, I want to get in local studies soooo bad but and grow and be paid while growing my skill but all the people in these studies act like it's the VIP section in a club....the kicker is I went to art school with at least 2 or 3 people in each studio have them on fb and ig non of them...f it you guys know were I'm going people are even in the nerd industry where I felt I would fit in.
Check out Jeff Vogel's 'Failing to Fail' speach at GDC (if you haven't already). It's exactly what you mention.
Hello Morghan I want to do the same thing , would you like to share your experience ?
Same here like I want to work p. Some bigger projects but at the some time I want to have control over the stuff that I create and I don’t want to be fixed to a studio.
I want to create stuff that I came up with and that I am passionate about
Adam, you're the father I never had. I grew up with an abusive, mentally unstable father who abused me for over 20 years, and I had no direction in life because of it. But your talks have played such a huge role in me finding myself. I don't feel as unstable anymore, because I know kind people like you exist, and now I have raised the bar high up because of you. I hope you stay in the best shape and health possible, and may god bless you with whatever you wish for.
I quit the tech industry years ago... I make a lot less money. But I'm 100% much happier.
Thank you for speaking out about this. I keep on hearing case after case about sexual abuse in these workplaces and its got me absolutely terrified about joining this workforce as a female artist. You advice helped me put things back in perspective
Wow. What an eye opener.
I'm 21. I've never been able to wrap my head around the fact that adults act like bullies in the playground. The story of the man getting pushed on the floor, like seriously? Are u guys in high school? I'm under half an hour into your video Adam. Everytime you mention a story I stop and think, how' I feel if I was the woman you spoke of, or you yourself with the story of the Art director taking Credit for work that YOU did.
My God, I thought grown-ups were, y'know, grownup, but this is absurd but not laughable, it's disgusting. I noticed that I've been cringing with a scowl on my face while you were telling your stories and other peoples'.
I am in disbelief.
"All older people are wise and mature" is the biggest lie we were ever told as kids.
@@council.of.fluffies True. But these people take it a step further and act like bullies! Disgusting 😝
It's the video game business - historically, what have video games had to do with growing up? I've seen this as a pattern with other companies; gossipy RUclips channel companies, net porn, they're started by people who pursued things that reflected their refusal to mature. And the more successful they got, they less anyone could say no to them.
@@Valkyomi Never heard of it, I'll give it a listen. Heard of the expression, didn't know it was from a song.
If you have all the money and the power, then there is no need to be nice anymore.
The moral of this story is: be an artist that values their self respect as a person
running the risk of overstepping my boundaries, let me thank you for this talk from the perspective of someone who never got such a sober overview of work life from my parents. I think this might fill such a void for many people from less than healthy homes, mr Adam. Cause i see this mentality a lot from the generation teaching us: 'If only i could get x or y job' and people working their asses off, rushing through their precious life for a goal and a vision of an experience entirely constructed in their own expectations. No wonder it doesn't match with reality, and a lot of people are ill-equipped to deal with it. So, thank you for putting your wisdom out here, we sorely need some of it.
And one final thing. I'm 25, just started art from scratch 2 years ago, and i'm just now getting my portifolio ready. Before i was in the healthcare industry, studying and aiming to work at that carreer. And to the surprise of no one, it's exactly the same. People that have money and power reveal themselves real quick, and you see a lot of stinky fish around.
You’re very welcome Kamui, and thank you as well :)
My experience with HR departments is 100% in line with yours. They are there to protect and serve the company/boss. Not to help the employees at all.
I've been fired just like you described. Went to HR over something that was blatantly unacceptable, and was fired the next day after having a ton of work piled on my desk. By the way, I don't work in the gaming, art, or movie industries. This kind of behavior isn't limited to those industries. From what I've seen, it's rampant in most industries.
yes me too ...you can expect that almost everywhere!
Like what is the point of them being there? Do they really do anything? In my opinion I think 🤔.not. tho!
Your presence in the art community is heaven sent dude - much love
One of my worst fears before at finding a job was that my skill level wasn't enough.... oh boy how wrong I was. I'm gald to have seen this video before bumping into a toxic enviroment in the industry. Thank you Adam for the anectdote and the warning, it's refreshing to be able to see things from a new perspective.
Heard horror stories about Activision from fellow alumni who did manage to get jobs there and worked on the the recent revival of a certain purple dragon from my childhood. Made me nope out and go the indie game route right after finishing my Game Art degree. I'd add that this toxic culture is brought over to art schools if the classes are taught by those who either work for the big studios or have recently worked there. I can't count the number of times I or someone else was berated/mocked in front of the entire class and nothing of consequence happens to the instructor.
Oh, crap. So it's a common thing? Quite sad indeed.
I totally relate. I worked in the industry for over 16 years and saw alot of stupid B.S as well. It was weird to see how big the egos on nerds could get. Yes nerds, because most elite game devs are just glamorized NERDS, who have fragile egos and don't know how to act once they reach a level of authority and influence.
As for HR, yes it is the legal dept. Their title says it all : You are a "Human Resource" and every resource is replaceable.
This is why you must do your own art, but always know art is something can you DO, not who you are. You are SO much more.
이 분의 말씀이 저도 공감하는 내용 입니다.
세계 어디서든 아티스트는 자기그림을 그려야해요.
그래야 대체가 가능하지 않습니다.
That blizzard tragedy made me seriously reconsider pursuing concept art. Like I am making a grave mistake trying to enter that industry because I know how vulnerable I could be against abusive people.
Coming from a... somewhat abusive family I know how hard it is to set your boundaries and actually enforce them. (heck, I didn't even realize boundaries were a thing I was allowed to have and to fight for until I entered therapy...)
The biggest lessons I learned throughout the years:
-How someone acts towards you is not a reflection of you, it's a reflection of them.
-don't tolerate abuse. Even from yourself. Especially from yourself.
-listen to your anger/indignation. They are signs that will tell you that someone has crossed a line.
-follow up on that, guilt is a toxic and powerful feeling that is far too easy to wield against you. (this is a hard one I know. and I'm still struggling with it myself to be honest)
-be proud of yourself of the things you did the way you'd be proud for your friend if they accomplished the same things
This was longer than intended, but I hope those tidbits can help.
Thank you!
Guilt isn't a toxic feeling. Guilt is important to know when you've done something wrong, and that can lead to accountability, self-improvement and empathy for others. Guilt is a pro-social feeling, people who don't allow themselves to feel it can be narcissistic and blame others for their actions instead of taking responsability.
What is toxic is when, due to some vulnerability on your part, your guilt becomes a tool for other people to manipulate you. Perhaps because you're insecure, perhaps because you're lonely, perhaps believe you deserve to be treated like trash just because you made a mistake, but the thing is, we can make mistakes, we can feel guilty, but we can still be forgiven and be allowed the benefit of the doubt to make amends and fix our wrongdoings.
The inability to be forgiven isn't something that reflects on you, it's something that reflects on the person that isn't able to forgive you. You can feel guilty and you can be guilty, you can be in the wrong and you can be in the position that you need to make up for it, but that doesn't make you deserving to be abused, it doesn't make you unlovable, it doesn't turn you into a bad person and it doesn't obligate you into complying to other people's unreasonably harsh judgements and expectations, it doesn't make it so that the only way for you to make up for it and get rid of that guilt is to be degraded.
@@Knightgil I was raised to feel guilty whenever I didn't comply (for any demands or requests) and saying "no" would have been a guaranteed sh*tshow. So yeah, my relationship with guilt is skewed.
I like your take on what guilt is, though. It's way more nuanced and reasonable than my view. Thank you for sharing your insight
good reply.
And this isn't just a game industry issue. This is a refreshing perspective that alot of people need to hear.
[TW: MENTIONS OF CH*LD AB*SE]
i really appreciate you speaking on such a serious issue
weirdly enough you kinda gave me some hope with this video because i’m such a vulnerable person esp bc i’m autistic* so when you were describing that situation where you land your dream job and start getting harassed i was thinking “i probably wouldn’t say anything if i really needed that job” but, and no hate to anyone who has ever stayed silent bc i completely get it since i was abused as a child and stayed silent for years, you helped me realise it doesn’t have to be like that. that the toxic environment i could potentially end up in doesn’t have to be my only option. sorry this was long but much love to you adam ❤️
*clarification: i’m not saying all autistic people are inherently vulnerable, i don’t know that for a fact. all i know is my autism makes me extremely trusting and people have taken advantage of that. all the same, there’s still hope because i managed to learn for the most part from those situations.
My son has ADHD and was even tested for autism himself - I can definitely see where you could be a bit more vulnerable, especially emotionally
When it comes to ab*se - you can further victimize yourself by feeling shame for the abuse, but you shouldn’t - the abuse, although it happened to you - is something entirely outside of you, done by someone else
So being open about it isn’t uncomfortable to others, it’s impressive and empowering
Many HR youtubers do talk about this, that it is a common misconception that HR is there to guard the interests of the employees. It is NOT, in fact it's there for the employer.
If you need your interests guarded as an employee, unionise.
Finally
you've always hovered around this topic and stories...I was always curious how and where all this happened...I can understand how hard it must be to share all this... you're an inspiration man
I need to add up one more thing,
NEVER take on a HUGE MORTGAGE that could tie and paralyze you from walking away from the situation that Adam had talked about.
And if you do NEVER let your boss know it.
Damn Adam, you really hit the nail on the head with this one. Many of us are so driven by the goal of getting the “job” that we forget about the environment we will be entering. Thank you my friend.
The heading pulled me in. Then I saw "1 hour" and thought that was long for a video, but started watching anyway. Before I knew it the hour was gone. Man, that was engaging. Literally loved every second of it. Thanks for that. Will never forget it.
Was listening seriously and broke into laughter when you mockingly did a mocking boss voice impersonation.
21:58 lmao
Can i say that some artists i follow and who give also good nuggets of wisdom sometimes just fall for me for that? It's just a reflex, therefore you never know whether to follow their advices or not
Very good Ethan Becker impression
@@Balloonbot But he does it as a joke, he's not like this for real. His broken cigarette in mouth is a constant reminder.
The only time I started fighting back was when I started believing I have self worth as a human being. I always believed I was a weak artist who didn't deserved the job I got and that as someone so lucky I don't deserve to complain. Thing is it doesn't matter if you were a good or bad artist, people deserve basic human decency and respect. Professionalism in the workplace is a must and the job of a supervisor is to help you succeed not terrorize you.
This was a real eye opener for a lot of people. There are articles of companies subjecting their employees to unrealistic work hours because of deadlines and rumors of abuse but we all brush it off. It is never ok for this type of thing to happen, I have met people like this and they blame victims for not being able to speak out and talk about their trauma and its disgusting. You said everything in the best way possible. Yes it's our identity its what we sacrifice so much for but we need to value ourselves enough to say no because we can find other opportunities. That one yes was enough to prove that we are good enough.
Whoever needs to hear this, please know that you are good enough!
I've never worked in the gaming industry, but I have worked in the graphic design & animation industries, and have seen/experienced this type of horrendous behavior. By people who will grind the humanity from you until you're an emotional husk. And why? Because they're on 24-7 power trips, and like vampires, need to suck life from others in order to maintain their own inflated existence (and deeply hidden insecurities). A great video, and thank you Adam.
I think a part of me was waiting for an *artist* I knew to speak about this situation, and lo and behold, here you are. Thank you, so so much, because when you started describing the kid who idolized Blizzard games and the studio, my younger self woke up and started inserting themself into the story you told. I can so easily see that version of myself falling into that trap, and frankly it's both scary and a relief to be able to recognize it. I'm just about to head into art school, and I really don't know where my art will take me, but I know I'm going to hold your advice close. You're always an amazing teacher, thank you again
All those stories sound like "If you ever own a studio, never expand too much. Limit it and keep is kinda small". And i love this.
The more people you have around you at work, the higher the chanches there are asshats. Smaller groups are much easier to manage and it keeps a particular climate, imo.
It is a problem of big studios. It becomes too impersonal and suddenly you become a number. Small and mid tier studios is where is at!
Look at Disney. Do anyone remember that it was once small?
That's why intend on keeping this in mind no matter where I go. Telltale Games learned this one the hard way.
@@DL-idk well OP did suggest "keeping it kinda small", if you're planning on owning your company
If we ever own a studio, at least we can eliminate the asshats quickly from the teams, even more if we nourish a healthy company ambient and culture.
Holy sh*t you're insanely immersive and spot on, the video actually felt like 10 mins! Now I want to collect enough money even faster to sign up for the mentorship (not sponsored lol)
I was sought out by 3 bigger gaming companies in my city. Never took the job because I knew of the toxic environment (sexual, overworking, stealing credit, underpaid). And saw people in tears talking of what goes on there and not being able to do anything about it. I kept freelancing and I will continue freelancing. Fuck companies.
Also, this happens in most companies.
When stuff like this happen, I'm glad I choose the self branding way, not having to rely on someone else to put food on the table.
It's truly the way to dodge all the industry bullshit.
Just dont get too big yourself other wise you will have to make decisions that might lead down a bad road you wont have control over.....blizzard entertainment started small and then got big and now look at it.....just hold onto your values and never compromise
Truly, good for you! I wish I had gone down this route sooner in my life. I will never make the mistake of working for someone else again. Not in the “traditional”, “9-5” sense, at least. If I do, it will be a tough vetting process where I’m honestly going to be interviewing them lol. Wishing you continued prosperity
Right on! ✊🏽✊🏽
@@thewriterforge For all you know, Blizzard might have started as a team of bro fratboys, and just became a team of bro fratboys who abuse lots of people now that they're rich.
Makes me realize and be grateful for being fortunate enough to have landed in one of those smaller great studios right away...
I may want to still dip my toes into a big studio one day but only for the experience. I have already found my Zen where I am.
Great video!
I don't work in design/game industry, but this still resonate with me greatly.. Felt like I just went to office for the first day. So naïve and happy... not knowing how this job will suck out my soul in a few years.
I've been working in an indie studio for 2 years and I've been enjoying every working day so far. But it's my first job and I'm often told it should just be a starting point, and I should be thinking about what's coming next.
I honestly don't aspire to much more for now, our team is great and the small scope means I'm working on diverse subjects and bringing a lot of myself to the final games.
Your video made me feel better about it, I think I'll stay as long as I'll be happy doing the job.
Thank you Adam !
When I was a kids in the late 90's early 2000's, when asked "What do you want to do when you grew up?" I would say "I want to create stories and worlds at Blizzard". They were the *Golden Boy* of the industry!
Seeing how the company has fallen over the years, and now this, really makes it surreal for me and other thousands now in our late 20's...
You most likely want to renew this Golden Era and create your own studio and work with passionate, like-minded individuals. We need MORE of the SMALLER game studios. This is how true gems were created in the first place, before the rampant extreme capitalism and massive cash grab ruined it.
@@azuretigers5562 True we need more games with heart like Biomutant and less soulless crap like Cyberbug 2077.
@@azuretigers5562 agreed. Many folks in general, across all industries, are starting to ditch companies and building their own businesses. Especially devs in games. As I see it, if you have knowledge, you have the potential to make a business. The other option is to give someone else your knowledge and watch them make triple (Likely more) than what they pay you, even though you’re the one that actually put in the work
it´s always a new oportunity to find a new goal for yourself as an artist ;)
It's only reality settling in, don't worry about it. Truth hurts but not for long.
After watching this video to the end. I now have more structured goal after i finish my final year in art school. Thanks man 🙏🏾✨
I can't express in words how much I appreciate your openness and empathy, the examples and metaphores you use. Thank you for sharing your experiences.
Thanks! I think a lot of people need to hear this!
That advice at the end is absolutely precious. To look at companies as relationships than can be healthy or toxic is a very solid perspective to look at it from. Thank you for this lesson Adam, hearing about other people's experiences within the work environment is priceless knowledge to have as someone aspiring to work in the field!
There’s a scene in the animation series “Tuca and Bertie” or rather episodes depicting these situations, while not a Video game company it was on a Bakery where Tuca finally gets to work with this famous Baker she idolized for years.
Turns out he isn’t the great guy that she thought and he started to further cross the intimate lines and act out his power on her.
Thank you for this video, since I do want to work in the gaming industry someday it’s good to hear these warnings
It sucks that so many artists seem to have gone through that amount of ab*se and that those in charge got away with it for so long. I´m glad that people now speak out about it so it can hopefully result in changes in that industry.
Why did you censor "abuse"?
@@randomserbianguy5677 youtube has a habit of deleting/hiding comments that include certain words
So, I am far below any of your commenters. No skills other than editing and the amorphous skill of 'being a writer'. I wanted to get into Blizzard (specifically) as a writer/quest designer. I.. never did anything, really, to help me do that, other than get a 'writing' degree woohoo. But I wrote a lot. I tried to improve my writing, I went to classes, tried to get published, failed. Failure upon failure, but I was trying.
My aim was to get into blizzard. I never got in past the first interview. Obviously, of course, I had no skills. I designed a game, here and there, wrote a few things. A blizzard recruiter at Blizzcon, drunk, laughed at my face and told me to 'come back in two years'. Humiliating.. but I felt like I deserved it, for being such a fuck-up.
I slowly lost my dream of becoming a Blizzard (anything) when my friends around me started to get into the industry. They started to tell me about how they loved working in their spots but it wasn't like the dream. Sometimes it was exhausting, toxic, and a lot of my girl-friends (not girlfriends) told me about the creeps in their offices. I thought, whatever, you guys are sensitive.. suck it up. You're living my dream, shut up. Then I started watching Jim Sterling, and the stuff about crunch started to become publicizied, then the Kotaku article about Riot, not to mention the people I idolized, when I met them.. sometimes turned out to just be.. drunk.. creeps.
I still wanted to be a developer.. though the motivation to that dream had faded a little. Then the stuff against Blizzard came out and.. honestly, it feels like I've lost a part of myself. I stopped 'worshipping' Blizzard after that recruiter laughed in my face, but I still liked the company a lot. Some other youtuber said this better but. You know how you were probably looked down on and bullied because you were a gamer? And how we became 'proud' to be gamers in that aspect, as a form of defense? Blizzard being this made them right to bully us. The people we wanted to be and worshipped were abusers and enablers. We should of been ashamed to like these people, to identify as their supporters.
So that's why it hurts. Nobody will read this essay but it's kind of for me, to spell out my feelings about the whole thing.
I'm so sorry but when you said about your friends talked about how tiring, toxic and female friends mentioning creeps in their office AND you said to suck it up...
I was like, "You were such a jerk, do you know how scary and real being sexually assault everywhere you go no matter what or where you go?"
(no offense, keyword is "were")
@@durratulaishah3703 yeah it was a cruel and bitter way of thinking I grew out of. I guess I would have been a pretty bad co worker if I actually did make it
I’m deeply sad about all those stories, some of them was so close from me, I felt like the ground crumble under my feet… Strange to say but I’m a lucky once… surround by amazing peoples in a big black hole industry. Thank you for making this video!
I wish I could have had this advice 20 years ago. I don't work in the Art / Game Industry, I'm a graphic motion graphics designer but similar things happen and have happened. Thank you Adam, everyone should have the luck of getting advice like this.
"The places i loved to work were not the biggest one, like EA or Disney". Many people should realize that their value is much more higher (i hope) of their curriculum. You do not have to fear the dealing of no job. We live in an economy that does not allow you to die without something to eat, so DECIDE with your heart you career, but then you should also start to reason with your BRAIN.
You are selling your services, your art, and they're just buying it. If you do not want to make deals with the buyer, just go ahed and serve the next client.
No one should find itself in situation like these. We as artists value more of these people. They probably have just much more money than you, but you are bigger in everything esle, so if you are a better person (and you probably are) you will surely have a better career, just do not leave you career path because of such dickheads.
I'm currently studying to go into the game industry and I feel like your advice will go a long way for me and probably many other. Thank you so mush.
Although my advice isn’t meant to deter anyone going into the gaming industry - I feel it’s an important tool that every professional should have at their disposal - walking in with a bit of street-smarts is useful
Hey Adam. Thank you for today’s video. It truly is sad to see how employees, honestly no matter the industry, are treated in such poor and and reprehensible manners. Most of my professional experience has been working for myself. I landed my first job, and I quickly saw how upper management would mistreat people, take advantage, and literally try to make the employee feel crazy for valid feelings such as feeling unsafe, being taken advantage of, abused and etc. It is the reason I quit and I do not plan to work for anyone else really because everyone I speak to, and everywhere I look (in terms of media covering work place abuse), I see how these company’s mistreat people and how people are just like “This is just how it is”. Like, no, my love. S*** is only like this because we as a species and people allowed it to be. There is no part of nature and laws of the universe that state work-life should be this way. There is no law in the universe that says we must treat each other in such damaging and disrespectful ways either.
It truly is sad, and I highly support you speaking out. More and more people will come to realize the truths that come with a “traditional” job, and there will be a reckoning (Non-violent, hopefully) for these companies. I hope everyone has a beautiful day
I’m sad to hear that your first live experience was such a negative one - very bad luck there
Although I too am self-employed and have had bad experiences, I mostly loved my career and colleagues - do t let one bad egg spoil the whole batch
Human Resources is neither 'Human' nor a 'Resource'. Their only role is to protect the company. Absolute Facts.
My blood is boiling on your experience with HR.
Hi Adam, just want to let you know I really a appreciate the video and the subject matter you’ve chosen. Until recently I’ve been super clear on my goal of wanting to become a concept artist or even an illustrator in the industry, basing my education around this path with blizzard being on the top of the list due to my close proximity to their headquarters here in California, but with this whole scandal kind of opening my eyes and finding out this kind of thing isn’t too uncommon in the industry, I’ve been in limbo and haven’t been able to bring myself to draw at all for the past few days, close to a week and have been more or less feeling kind of useless and unsure of what to do. Even as I’m still listening to the video, just the “and how to protect yourself” part of the title has me inspired to put on the glove, pick up the pen, and draw!
This hits hard and I'm not sure how to pick myself again but thank you for telling me my worth even though I'm still at a loss, it feels hopeful.
"It was November 6th, I remember because it was November 7th is my birthday"
*takes note*
Lol!
He’s an N7 baby!
@@AdamDuffArt i guess were birthday neighbors cuz my birthday is on nov 6
he is a scorpio!! haha
this has changed my idea on jobs and truly I'm thankful for the heads up
as a smaller guy who has had this happen, it really sucks that noone speaks up. Also having worked with big companies AND EA as well, still the best companies ive worked for were the smaller indie companies. Learned so much in such a good environment!
I am an artist too. when I got fired I was told that It was not because of my performance
Just that I was not the right cultural fit for the company.
Literally went home and googled "cultural fit".
Just had to Google it too. Didn't even know that was a thing until now wtf
I frikkin hate that. It's like that in the film industry aswell. You might just not get hired because you weren't funny enough.... Like... I'm here to carry the lights and help set them up... really makes you feel that the industry doesn't actually care if the end result is good, or if you're even fast enough to help save money.
I, an artist, wanted to work at Blizzard and Disney when I was younger too, but over the years as I discovered their corruption and/or overall lack of care for the passion of artists, I kind of grew out of them. I've always had a side thing I adore working on, characters that I would make to tell my own stories, so I didn't lose my way. I guess I was just hoping that these companies may give me the chance some day for me to step up and do my own passions while they fund me. Quite the delusional dream it was, but I'm glad I was able to establish these side projects for myself on my own. Made the whole discovery of the corruption of these big name companies easier to deal with.
Still at a loss of direction financially but I do hope I am able to bring these projects of mine into light in a way that can support me.
Thank you for such a insightful video. I loved listening to the entire hour. You're a really good storyteller! O:
I too wanted Blizzard, i love WoW since i was a 10 year old. Illusions destroyed and a new path ahead. I guess we gotta construct our identity not around people or even things or goals, but in our origins. Might be unpopular what i´m about to say, but my identity is in Christ, so nothing in this world is more valuable than my standarts. I feel bad for all the women that suffer these things, good people gotta open more good studios, so that nobody has to surrender to such bad companies. We can build Blizzards of ourselves, y´´know?
Listening to your story it's like a cross between an Art talk and War Story. This is amazing you can never put an Artist inside a corporate cage.
This is something a lot of us really need to hear. Thank you for taking the time to speak to us so genuinely about such a fishy topic!
Literally my entire experience working as a firefighter. I knew once I spoke up, it was end game.
It's high school all over again
Thank you for this. I am one of the women something similar has happened to. It might not have been a star studio but it was my first serious industry job and back then i didnt even realized how much abuse has happened there. It caused me a huge depression and i have quit my passion that was art for years after.. i honestly never even understood what happened. It never occured to me that i have lost my identity but now that you said it its clear as day. I hope more people see this. Keep up your great work!
The fact that most of the studios put artists under a contract that they can't even discuss the name of the studio anywhere at all. Yes, there is such a thing.
why tf does this look so nice, like the video looks a film. the framing, the grade, the production quality, the lightning, this is too good man.
Why thank you :)
Just an aspiring artist and it was a relief to hear this, the fact that I am not really fixated on something ,but just like doing art made me sceptical if I m passionate enough! Thankyou it did clear a lot!
HR is NOT for the employees.. HR DOES NOT have your back.... HR is to protect the company.... Take notes from this video!! I wish that I had this video 4 years ago. I have gone through some fucking moments of horror.. After coming home from war, I lost everything.. hit road blocks in the tech field.... and my art is what I have .. being an artist and seeing other artists make it keeps me inspired. I will take 2023 to focus on my portfolio. Thank you greatly
some of these stories remind me so much of the power trips I've seen and experienced through my career from superiors. Workplace harassments, hazing, and bullying is something that's plagued this industry from so much of what I would call the old guard, and I feel like I could write a book of what I've seen. I really hope we can set an example that we wont stand for it anymore especially since we have so many new faces entering the industry. They don't deserve to go through that shit.
You are the only youtuber with whom I can spend hours listening to you and continue wanting more (well and the podcasts of Feng Zhu haha). Your videos are really deep and I thank you from the bottom of my heart, Adam.
So glad you made a video about this controversy.
Human Affairs is why I lost one of my jobs, and I worked at a factory!
Human Affairs has no love from me.
It's stories like this that actually scare me about getting into the creative industry.
Thank you for speaking up about this and thank you for doing it with such kindness and understanding
I'm not artistic, have no desire to work for a gaming company, and randomly found this video but I sat through it. The truth you spilled is so profound. I low-key needed to hear it.
It was worth every minute I spent watching to it. I'm not an artist but unfortunately this kind of thing happens in every big dream company. Thanks for sharing
I've not worked too long professionally (just about 2-4 years), but one thing I've realised and assure myself of nowadays is: "I'd rather be a good person, than a great artist."
Regardless of sub count or views Adam, yours is one of the most valuable art channels and content creators on RUclips. Your channel is one of those that I think any modern artist can benefit from. Thank you for saying so many things that we artists need to hear but are hardly said so candidly or in such a straightforward, genuine manner.
Man, some these anecdotes are really scary. I knew that most companies are probably run by criminals that have hired a bunch of enablers to keep things smooth for them, but damn. But I think it's best for us not to be deterred by this, with today's society there are other ways to achieve your goals.
You have such a warm, fatherly approach. I almost teared up listening to this. You're amazing. Don't ever change.
I went through this hell 3 TIMES before I finally learned I was better than the abuse heaped on me by the videogames racket.
I know I'm late to this video but I just wanted to say that I thought your discussion on this topic to be very moving. The picture you painted was absolutely on point. Being a 20+ year veteran of the industry I cannot convey how important it is to see someone with your experience make a video like this for up and coming artists. Sadly some of your stories are all too familiar to my own when I was coming up. With more candid conversation like this, I like to think that we are slowly making headway to a healthier industry (but we still have a long way to go). Thanks for this Adam
The moment you spoke about the secretary, I swear I was ready to throw hands. Holy fuck that made me ANGRY. Especially since she was obviously so professional and patient, but how?? How can you put up with something so vile?
Probably because she couldn't change jobs immediately. Being able to just quit and search without having to worry about financial stability is a privilege many aren't aware of. I hope she got away from that place fast.
This is one of if not the most important video l've ever watched in my life. It started with very important point on harassment and ended with just generally the wisest career track point of view/advice there is. There should be more kind and thoughtful people like you. Thank you!
As a freelancer artist myself working on Brazil (which normally is recipe for failure), your video give me motivation to keep going. Thanks man, i will never forget your words.
Watching this video should be obligatory school curriculum, thank you so much for what you've been doing for the community Adam, coming forward and speaking out. Respect.👏
100% why I want to be an independent artist, these huge corporations have no concern or care for their employees. Also we're bday twins lol
I rly love the honesty and how u realistically talks about the industry. Its giving me the insight i need to mentally prepare before diving into the industry
Adam, I remember you mentioning the issues that you encountered in some studios on previous videos, and how you were kicked out on your birthday, but after hearing you talk about what happened to other people in there, I had no idea that it was that bad! I don’t know how I would manage to deal with all of that if I were in such situations...
What you say really resonates with me, because I’ve been wondering what to do with my career for the near future, and you’ve pretty much said what I have been thinking for some time.
I would like to try to join a studio for some years, to gain some experience and skills. But knowing myself, freelancing might be better for me (even though I know how tough it is and how much I hate administrative paperwork). And ultimately, my big dream is not to work in this or that studio, but to become good enough, maybe the best that I could be without getting into a burnout, to create what I want without feeling limited because of my skills. Create my own stuff, my own dream, like a kid who suddenly can bring to life his own stories with quality...Well, and get some money while doing that so I can eat!
I have just quitted my job of 10 years as a college professor to properly practice my skills, and while I didn’t like my job and didn’t “blossom” in that field, I couldn’t have asked for better colleagues and work environment. Don’t get me wrong, academia has its own problems as well, any field has its issues. But I’ve avoided getting into trouble and participating in “office politics”, I was never afraid to go to work, to speak with a colleague, or discuss with my superior. The most toxic and problematic year I can think of is miles away from what is happening in some studios.
And after teaching at university level for so long, the last place I want to work at is somewhere that oozes of frat boy culture. Those parts at 21:58 and 40:50 are a big “no-no, time to run away” for me: that terrifies me. I will not do well at all in that kind of environment (by the way, I love your slightly over the top acting: I think your animator past really comes out in those moments!). I am afraid that could be the norms in most big studios, because in that case I don’t want to work there.
I don’t know if all of this is going to change anything in the industry. I’m rather cynical, I am pretty sure that anyone guilty at Blizzard will receive a slap in the hand and a golden parachute. Everybody will forget after some months, and they’ll go and work at some other big studio. So nothing will change.
And about confronting your abuser, I am even more pessimistic and say that the worst case scenario is not “we’re letting you go because you’re not a good fit for the company”. The worst case scenario is “we’re letting you go because you’re not a good fit for the company, AND on your back, we will blacklist you and tell all of our friends, in all of those other big studios, what a c*nt you are so either a)we’re crippling your chances to find work again in this industry or b)we’ll try to make your next job even more miserable!”.
But, lucky for me (I guess?), I don’t have a dream studio in mind. I never dreamed about Blizzard, EA, or Ubisoft: they are just options. It could be problematic if I want to join some concept art program to brush up my skills and they ask “so, which studio(s) would you like to work at later?”. I guess I’ll answer “a studio where I like what I do, where I can improve my skills month after month, without toxic workplace, with great colleagues, and good salary. Doesn’t matter if it is a small or big studio. Oh, and in a city with super public transportation, that is definitely a big plus!”.
Or just go freelance. And in that case it’s up to me to become good enough at something so clients and studios will come to me directly because they’ll need my skills.
I pray enough people will be empowered by that message. Thanks, bro!
10:43 This is all across the creative industry whether its Art, Animation, Motion Graphics, Video Editing, you name it. A Massive problem that needs to be addressed
So glad I got this recommended to me. I don't work in the industry (just a normal uni student, am in my last year in my bachelor's degree in anthropology) but have always been interested in video games for almost a decade now. I almost cried when hearing the news about Blizzard and that poor woman sadly killing herself due to the company's ''culture''. Your perspective and empathy is fantastic and necessary, and I love how you speak the hard truths - very refreshing to hear and made me also realize some things within myself. Another daily reminder to never idolize anyone - you'll just end up being disappointed all the time.
I am so glad that my big studio experience so far was at Mojang, where it was a greatly rewarding position and the culture on the art team was fantastic. But at the same time, I have a friend who is very much reeling from the experience she had at a different big studio, and the blind-eye and excuses that people there gave her when she spoke up about it, and I feel furious on her behalf.
I really appreciate your advice on striving for a standard of quality, rather than striving for a specific job.
Former collectibles company AD here. Your one hundred percent on point with your insights. It took me six years to learn the gems your dropping.