The children’s video game that turned toxic
How did Club Penguin, a children’s video game launched in 2005, become a hotbed of abusive language, bullying, racist and sexual content 15 years later?
It’s full of garish colours and blocky animals. Club Penguin was a huge smash for Disney upon its release 15 years ago. And an unofficial version became an unlikely comeback hit during the coronavirus pandemic, with millions of new players.
But things have gone downhill quickly. The unofficial version is outside of the entertainment giant’s control, and a ±«Óătv investigation found that moderation is lax to non-existent. Cybersecurity correspondent Joe Tidy donned his undercover avatar and discovered widespread bullying, sexual content, and racist abuse.
Disney says it’s “appalled” by the unofficial version of the game and has ordered it to be shut down, and parents say it shouldn’t exist anymore. So how did Club Penguin turn sour?
Presenter: Jonathan Griffin
Reporter: Joe Tidy
Picture caption: A screengrab from the Club Penguin game
Picture credit: Disney/Club Penguin
Power down sound effect courtesy of qubodup.
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