Part 7/11:
A recurring theme in Ryan’s critique is the accusation that the gaming industry and its critics have been influenced or infiltrated by conspiracy theories surrounding "cultural Marxism". He ties this to the concept of gamergate, which he claims has been co-opted to criticize the diversification and inclusion efforts in gaming—such as the introduction of female characters and LGBTQ+ representation.
Ryan argues that these social changes have made some segments of the gaming community react negatively, framing it as a threat to "traditional" gaming values. He sarcastically mentions how The Last of Us Part II faced backlash not because of its storytelling, but because of its diverse character roster, implying that social progress is being unfairly targeted.