Behaviour Interactive has responded to criticism over its decision to give VTuber TheBurntPeanut paid downloadable content for Dead by Daylight. The company said it did not properly review the streamer’s past content or check whether he represented its values before making the offer.
The controversy followed TheBurntPeanut’s first Dead by Daylight stream, which attracted a large audience. The game’s official account joined the stream and offered him all paid DLC packs. When he reportedly hesitated over accepting the gift because of the reaction it might provoke, the account replied, “We can take the heat!”
TheBurntPeanut has faced repeated accusations of offensive behaviour, alleged viewbotting and using racial and homophobic slurs. The offer prompted criticism from players, with some saying they had uninstalled the game and others voicing their objections on social media.
In its statement, Behaviour Interactive said it sometimes provides creators with in-game content to introduce Dead by Daylight to new audiences. It acknowledged that the decision in this case was made hastily by one unnamed team member rather than discussed by the team as a group.
The gifted content has since been removed from TheBurntPeanut’s account. Behaviour Interactive also said it is reviewing and updating the approval process for future content grants. The company said it would take internal action concerning those involved, but would not share details because the matter is confidential.
Behaviour Interactive said it values respect and diversity and wants Dead by Daylight to be a welcoming space where players can feel safe being themselves. However, many commenters remained dissatisfied, arguing that the company’s explanation and response did not go far enough.
Sources: Polygon.