Rockstar took down the Red Dead Online servers earlier today to commemorate the death of George Floyd. The US is currently playing host to nationwide protests in of the Black Lives Matter movement after the murder.
A number of brands have come forward to the cause in the wake of the Black Lives Matter protests. Humble Bundle, also pledged $1 Million to Black game developers.
According to a statement made on the company's official Twitter handle, Rockstar intentionally shut down both the Grand Theft Online and Read Dead Online servers to honor the life of George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter movement. The servers were shut down today between 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm ET. During that period, fans weren't able to access online content in Red Dead Redemption 2 and Grand Theft Auto V - however, single-player and offline content was remain accessible. Rockstar further urged its fans to the victims of racial discrimination and Black-owned businesses by donating to relevant organizations that are working towards the cause of bettering the lives of those affected by racism.
While Rockstar has done its part, the community stands divided on the gesture. While some are praising the company for what it did, others are being vocal about Rockstar not lending any monetary for the cause. Some have even pointed out some valid faults on Rockstar's part such as the rampant use of racial slurs by certain characters in Grand Theft Auto 5.
Rockstar's move might not benefit minorities and people of color directly - the company can and should use money to spread its message as well, through donations and other movements - but the gesture of taking both Grand Theft Auto Online and Red Dead Online's servers offline is still an impactful one. In the fight against racial discrimination, awareness is pivotal Rockstar's reach should urge some of its many fans to reconsider their stance or get more involved in a crucial moment in history.
Source: Rockstar Twitter
