Xbox Loses Celeste and TowerFall Over BDS Boycott
This move highlights how political activism is increasingly affecting game availability, and Xbox players lose access to two acclaimed indie titles.
This move highlights how political activism is increasingly affecting game availability, and Xbox players lose access to two acclaimed indie titles.
Key points - Celeste and TowerFall have been delisted from Xbox by developer Maddy Thorson. - Thorson cited Microsoft's involvement and investments with the Israeli government as the reason. - The decision was made in support of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement. - Big Walk, a co-op game by House House, also skipped Xbox earlier this fall for the same reason. - Both Celeste and TowerFall remain available on PlayStation, PC, and Switch.
Timeline - 2013: TowerFall is released. - 2018: Celeste is released. - Fall 2024: Big Walk announces it will not release on Xbox due to BDS boycott. - Recently: Celeste and TowerFall are delisted from Xbox.
FAQ
Q: Why were Celeste and TowerFall removed from Xbox? A: Developer Maddy Thorson removed them in support of the BDS movement, citing Microsoft's involvement and investments with the Israeli government.
Q: Can I still play Celeste and TowerFall on other platforms? A: Yes, both games are still available for purchase on PlayStation, PC, and Switch.
Q: What is the BDS movement? A: The BDS movement is a Palestinian-led movement for freedom, justice and equality that targets companies involved with or invested in the Israeli government.
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