Gaming outlet Kritiqual recently bundled $308 worth of queer-friendly magic themed video games, tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) systems, and various game assets and soundtracks into the “Trans Witches Are Witches” bundle. How much does it cost? “$60, or one AAA wizard game,” according to the bundle description.
Kritiqual describes the bundle as “A bundle of witchcraft and wizardry without the transphobia, antisemitism, and alt-right grifters.” They call the buyers to, “Reject Hogwarts Legacy’s bigotry and support independent LGBTQ+ creators.” In addition, the description of the bundle includes links to several articles outlining just why it is so harmful to support JK Rowling by lining her pockets, including her rampant transphobia.
Though the game has tried to separate itself from Rowling herself, the antisemitism that started at the very beginning of the Harry Potter franchise continues into this newest addition with its goblin antagonists, and the lead developer Troy Leavitt ran a reactionary, anti-social-justice YouTube channel for years before taking on this project. In this period, he crafted lengthy defenses of John Lasseter, a Pixar co-founder who left his position at Disney in response to sexual harassment allegations, and the movement Gamergate, which fostered harassment against women and other minorities in the gaming industry.
The bundle contains such TTRPG titles as “Pigsmoke: a Roleplaying Game of Sorcerous Academia,” “The Coven at the End of the Lane,” and “Muscle Wizard Gets the Job Done!” as well as video game titles like “What’s Wrong With the Girl’s Staircase?” “You Are a Wizard,” and “Lotus: The Self Made Witch.”
At the time of writing, the “Trans Witches Are Witches” bundle has raised over $195,000 and is set to go off the market on Thursday, February 24. You can learn more about the initiative and purchase the full bundle here. However, if $60 is out of your price range. there is a smaller “Apprentice Bundle” being offered for only $10.
