Genshin Impact’s voice actors have expressed their disappointment over the design of the game’s new characters. They have criticized the game developers, claiming that the characters’ cultures are inaccurately represented. Fans have also expressed disappointment over the cultural misappropriation in the upcoming in-game region.
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MiHoYo, Genshin Impact’s developers were called out for failing to adequately represent the Yoruba culture in the upcoming region of Natlan. Valeria Rodriguez stated on her X page that the developers failed to respect the culture inspired by the character. Other voice actors have also called upon HoYoverse to make changes to the new game.
MiHoYo criticised for whitewashing characters
Genshin Impact developers MiHoYo announced they would soon launch Genshin Impact 5.0, which will include the Natlan region. They added that the launch would be in August and include locations and tales inspired by the real world.
It is reported that the Genshin Impact5.0 shares similarities with the real world in terms of geography and history. The developers revealed the game’s trailer last week ahead of the launch.
Genshin’s voice actors have since expressed their views on the new game. The voice actors’ reactions have led to a public outcry. They have particularly addressed a new character that stems from an African deity. The voice actors stated that the characters do not adequately depict the African culture. They asked HoYoverse to rectify the character since it is disrespectful.
Valeria Rodriguez, a voice actor for the action role-playing game, addressed the developers and asked them to respect real cultures.
‘I’m fine with things being inspired by various cultures—that’s awesome. Representation is dope. But bare minimum do some research & show some cultural appreciation.” Representation is dope.’
– Valeria Rodriguez
Rodriguez highlighted the new character Olorun, who is inspired by Yoruba culture but does not look like a West African figure. Fans supported her sentiments and pointed out other characters. They highlighted Kinich and Mavukia, who are inspired by Maori culture. They added that the characters were all white and looked nothing like the Maori people.
Genshin Impact’s voice actors call upon HoYoVerse for change
Khoi Dao, who voices Albedo, addressed the issue on X and asked the game developers to change Genshin Impact. He stated that people were well within their rights to demand better representation. He specified that the culture should be respected if real-world cultures heavily inspire a game. He concluded his post by urging everyone to ensure their voices are heard.
Zeno Robinson, who voices the game’s character Sethos, also called out the developer and stated that even the Chinese fan base was requesting better cultural representation in the game. Jenny Yokobori, who voices Yoimaya, also posted that people want to see themselves in the media they consume.
Anne Yatco, who plays the game’s character, Shogun, also asked the company to listen to the feedback it received. She highlighted that the fanbase has expressed criticism for many years about the inclusion of elements, especially from other cultures.
