Another major California-based video game developer is initiating a return-to-office order. Citing technology media Vice, Riot Games, the developer of the “League of Legends” game, announced that it will require employees to return to its Los Angeles headquarters, while also canceling the requirements for vaccines and masks. Riot also no longer requires regular COVID-19 testing for employees who do not show proof of vaccination.
The Vice report interviewed several current and former Riot employees who expressed anger that the new policy would jeopardize the health of employees. “It’s a stupid, pointless policy, dealt with at a bad time, and doesn’t really keep us safe,” an anonymous employee told Vice.
Despite these concerns, Riot is acting in accordance with state and federal COVID-19 guidelines. California recently dropped its indoor mask-wearing mandate (requiring proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test), and other states are following suit.
Activision Blizzard came under fire last week when it revealed in a leaked email to employees from COO Brian Bulatao that it would also be returning to offices without vaccination requirements. After a backlash on social media, including a virtual walkout, Activision Blizzard revised its decision to allow individual studios to decide on vaccinations and mask-wearing at their own discretion.