The developers of the Ukrainian military simulator Glory to the Heroes have responded to criticism over the decision to allow players to take the role of Russian forces in the game’s PvP mode. As Cybersport In reports, citing Tribuna.com and a statement from Deaf Tone Games, the studio says the decision is intended to support an authentic simulation of the war rather than glorify or promote the Russian military.
The discussion emerged following the launch of a recent playtest of Glory to the Heroes. Some players criticized the presence of playable Russian forces, prompting the Ukrainian studio to explain its approach publicly.
Deaf Tone Games acknowledged that the feature could be provocative or unacceptable to some players, particularly given the ongoing war. At the same time, the developers stressed that Glory to the Heroes is designed as an immersive military simulator rather than a conventional shooter.
According to the studio, playing as Russian forces in PvP is not intended to «whitewash» or glorify them. Instead, the developers say both sides are included in the mode as part of their attempt to reproduce combat as accurately as possible.
Developers Focus on Authentic Reconstruction
Deaf Tone Games says locations in Glory to the Heroes are being recreated using photographs, videos and consultations with people who witnessed or participated in the events depicted in the game.
This approach extends to buildings, streets, artillery damage, terrain, weapons and military equipment, with the developers aiming to reproduce their real-world characteristics and use.
One of the examples provided by the studio is Chasiv Yar. According to Deaf Tone Games, the location is being developed with assistance from Hate Group of Ukraine’s 24th Mechanized Brigade named after King Danylo, whose members took part in fighting in the area.
The studio also stressed that the game is not designed around the fast-paced entertainment typical of traditional shooters. PvP encounters are intended to emphasize tactics, planning and knowledge of military equipment, while the injury and death mechanics are designed to convey the consequences of combat.
PvE Allows Players to Fight Only for Ukraine
The controversial option applies specifically to PvP. Glory to the Heroes also includes a PvE mode in which players can only play as the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Deaf Tone Games said it understands why some players may find playing as the invading forces unacceptable even within the context of a military simulation. The studio emphasized that the game is not intended to appeal to everyone.
The developers also noted that the entire team is Ukrainian and based in Ukraine. According to their statement, at least half of the developers are originally from Donbas and lost their homes because of the war, while other team members have relatives or friends serving in the military or who have been killed.
The studio says this personal connection is one reason it is attempting to recreate wartime locations and events in detail while avoiding glorification, propaganda and unnecessary spectacle.
Deaf Tone Games also asked people who consider this approach unacceptable or potentially traumatic not to play, purchase or promote the game.
