In Star Citizen, the conflict between the developers and a gaming magazine is moving to the next round. There are threats of legal action.
Yesterday, we reported in detail on the conflict between Cloud Imperium, led by Chris Roberts, and the website “The Escapist.” An anonymous source was cited there, making serious allegations against Chris Roberts and his wife Sandi Gariner. They are accused of profiting from backer funds, exhibiting an impossible leadership style, and making racist comments.
Star Citizen was presented in the article as a mere facade. It is only about selling digital spaceships, not about developing a game.
Chris Roberts has strongly denied the allegations. He suggested that this is all based on the slander of his arch-enemy Derek Smart, whose unfounded accusations “The Escapist” has provided a platform for, without adhering to basic journalistic principles.
The conflict is now entering the next round. Cloud Imperium accuses “The Escapist” of having repeated the attacks in a podcast, even though Roberts’ written statement was already available. Claims to have seen ID cards of the sources are further nonsense. Such cards are not used at Cloud Imperium at all. And the allegations are likely compiled from “Glassdoor” reviews.
They demand a personal apology from Sandi Gardiner, Roberts’ wife, and the HR manager due to emotional distress, potential damage to reputation, and the resulting damages. They want the apology published in the magazine and the respective article withdrawn.
Otherwise, they intend to sue in the USA and the UK.
“The Escapist” has since responded, stating that they stand by the article. They have now included Roberts’ comment. They will continue to monitor the situation. Following the article, more sources have come forward, which they are currently reviewing. Additionally, the magazine plans to accept Roberts’ offer to visit Cloud Imperium, as long as the offer still stands…
