Creator Drama
Games Done Quick Saudi Link Backlash
Resolved
Cover: GenZHype original graphic. All clips and posts below are embedded from their original sources.
By the numbers: this timeline documents 4 events, drawn from 1 source.
“We’re so excited to be working with SNK to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of Metal Slug with a speedrunning showcase,”
via dexerto.com
Background
Games Done Quick is a charity speedrunning organization that has been involved in various events and partnerships over the years.
SNK is a Japanese developer and publisher behind popular franchises such as Metal Slug and Fatal Fury, which has been wholly owned by the Electronic Gaming Development Company since 2022.
The Electronic Gaming Development Company is owned by the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation, a Saudi nonprofit founded and chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Saudi Arabia has been increasingly involved in the video game industry, including launching the Esports World Cup and taking full ownership of EVO.
The country's human rights record has been a subject of controversy, with concerns over issues such as LGBTQ+ rights and freedom of expression.
The timeline
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Games Done Quick Announces Partnership with SNK
Games Done Quick reportedly announced a partnership with SNK to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Metal Slug franchise with a speedrunning showcase.[974]
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Backlash Over Saudi Ownership and Human Rights Concerns
Viewers reportedly quickly raised concerns about SNK's Saudi ownership and questioned whether the sponsorship aligned with Games Done Quick's stated commitment to inclusivity and human rights.[974]
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Games Done Quick Cancels Sponsored Stream with SNK
Games Done Quick reportedly canceled the sponsored stream with SNK just two hours and 43 minutes after announcing the partnership, citing concerns over Saudi ownership and human rights.[974]
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Games Done Quick Apologizes for Oversight and Vows to Strengthen Sponsor Review Process
Games Done Quick reportedly apologized for the oversight and vowed to strengthen their sponsor review process to ensure that future partners align with their values.[974]
Frequently asked
What was the reason for the cancellation of the Games Done Quick sponsored stream with SNK?
The cancellation was due to concerns over SNK's Saudi ownership and human rights concerns, which conflicted with Games Done Quick's stated commitment to inclusivity and human rights.
What will Games Done Quick do to prevent similar incidents in the future?
Games Done Quick will strengthen their sponsor review process to ensure that future partners align with their values and conduct closer checks into corporate ownership.
How much money did Summer Games Done Quick 2026 raise for Doctors Without Borders?
Summer Games Done Quick 2026 raised $2.8 million for Doctors Without Borders.
Related drama
Sources
Cite this timeline
This timeline compiles 4 dated events from 1 sources. If it helped your reporting, cite it:
GenZHype. “Games Done Quick Saudi Link Backlash.”
GenZHype, 4 September 2026,
https://genzhype.com/drama/games-done-quick-saudi-link-backlash/.