EcoQuest (like many other Sierra series) contains material which some have found controversial. Although it seems as if it should be one of hte least controversial games in Sierra's library.
This page discusses a number of the controversial aspects of the series as defined by reviewers and players over the years. Note: the 'controversies' are just opinions by different individuals, commentators and writers (some maybe flawed interpretation or biased projection, and therefore the accuracy of opinions cannot be vouched for).
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the cited authors, writers, commentators and other individuals, and do not reflect the official policies or positions of this wiki.
Minority Representation
- EcoQuest has been accused of racism. For some seeing a problem with how native characters in EcoQuest 2 are portrayed. Some see lack of diversity in characters in general in the series in general. One arguement also appears to suggest that a white caucasian saving a group of natives is problematic in itself (going back to the tradition of 'white knighting' of oppressed people). One reviewer comments "Looking back on the game, I realize now that it was kind of racist. It infantilized rainforest tribes and portrayed hispanic South Americans as buffoons.", and that you have to do things for them to help them, "You know, things they would never have been able to do themselves if it were not for the kindness and ingenuity of a blond, blue-eyed North American boy."[1]"But the romanticized trope of a white boy saving the natives hits differently when you play it again as an adult, armed with a better understanding of why this angle might be harmful."[2]
- Some animal characters are portrayed with anthropomorphised stereotypical cultural/racial personalities.
- The main villain of EcoQuest 2 could be seen as racist, just as much as he is anti-environment, and greedy.
Female Representation
- There is almost no female representation since you are playing as boy. Some may find this sexist and problematic.
- There are female animals with anthropomorphic mannerisms/characterizations. Sometimes stereotypical.
Politics
- Sierra received letters by Sierra fans who were offended by the pro-environmental messages. Going as far to claim they were being duped by "Democrats in Congress" in following after Commie propaganda.[3]
- These same fans, appeared to see the game's messages as being anti-Capitalist, and portraying capitalism as 'greedy'.
See also
- Controvesies in King's Quest
- Controversies in Space Quest
- Controversies in Police Quest
- Controversies in Quest For Glory
- Controversies in Conquests series
- Controversies in Leisure Suit Larry
- Controversies in Laura Bow
- Controversies in Gabriel Knight series
- Controversies in Phantasmagoria series
- Controversies in Freddy Pharkas