Microsoft"s E3 2013 press conference on Monday included a live demo of Killer Instinct, its upcoming revival of the fighting game series originally created by Rare for the launch of the Xbox One console. However, the live demo was marred when two employees engaged in some banter on stage that was basically an attempt at a rape joke.
During the demo, a male producer of Killer Instinct was playing the game against a woman. At one point, the woman said, "I can"t even block correctly, and you"re too fast. The man replied. "Here we go. Just let it happen. It"ll be over soon."
Many who watched the demo were offended and thought that the words were scripted. CBS News reports that, in a statement from Microsoft, the company at first said that the comments made on stage were not scripted and that there was "no ill intent" when they were made.
Later, Microsoft flat out apoligized for the statements. Microsoft Studios corporate vice president Phil Spencer is quoted as saying:
Yesterday, during the Xbox E3 briefing, one of our employees made an off the cuff and inappropriate comment while demoing "Killer Instinct" with another employee. This comment was offensive and we apologize. At Microsoft, being open and respectful with others is central to our code of conduct and our values. Bullying and harassment of any kind is not condoned and is taken very seriously. We remain committed to make gaming fun for everyone, and in that effort, we must lead by example.
Killer Instinct will be released as a digital download for the Xbox One launch. The fighting game will be "free-to-play" with just one character available at launch, with the ability to add other characters for additional fees.
Source: CBS News | Image via Microsoft
Neowin"s E3 2013 coverage is sponsored by Alienware