Why is Sumeru Problematic?

Sumeru is problematic due to concerns of whitewashing and colorism, as the region’s characters have been found to lack diversity in skin tone, with most having light skin, sparking controversy among fans and critics alike. The lack of dark-skinned characters in a region inspired by Middle Eastern and South Asian cultures has been particularly criticized, with some fans accusing the game developers of cultural insensitivity and racial bias.

Introduction to Sumeru

The Sumeru region in Genshin Impact has been a topic of discussion among fans and critics, with many praising its unique culture and architecture, but others criticizing its handling of diversity and representation.

FAQs

General Questions

1. What is the Sumeru controversy?: The controversy surrounding Sumeru centers around the lack of diversity in character designs, particularly the underrepresentation of dark-skinned characters in a region inspired by Middle Eastern and South Asian cultures.
2. What is the problem with Genshin Sumeru?: The main issue with Sumeru is the perceived whitewashing and colorism in character designs, which has led to accusations of cultural insensitivity and racial bias.
3. What is the conflict in Sumeru?: The conflict in Sumeru involves the Akademiya and the Eremites, who have different beliefs and values, leading to tension and conflict in the region.

Character-Specific Questions

4. Why is Kusanali hated?: Kusanali is not necessarily hated, but rather ignored or overlooked by the people of Sumeru, who prefer to worship Greater Lord Rukkhadevata instead.
5. Is Rukkhadevata and Kusanali the same?: Rukkhadevata and Kusanali are not exactly the same person, but Kusanali is the reincarnation of Rukkhadevata, with the same essence and powers.
6. Who is the darkest Sumeru character?: Dehya is currently the only dark-skinned character in Sumeru, and her introduction has been seen as a positive step towards increasing diversity in the region.

Cultural Inspiration and Representation

7. Is Sumeru based on Arab?: Sumeru is inspired by a mix of Middle Eastern and South Asian cultures, with influences from ancient Egypt, India, Persia, and Mesopotamia.
8. Is there no reputation in Sumeru?: There are 10 Sumeru Reputation Levels in Genshin Impact, which provide unique rewards and benefits to players who complete specific tasks and achievements.
9. Is Sumeru supposed to be Egypt?: While Sumeru has influences from ancient Egypt, it is not directly based on Egyptian culture, and instead draws inspiration from a broader range of Middle Eastern and South Asian cultures.

Game-Related Questions

10. Is khaenri ah under Sumeru?: Khaenri’ah is a separate region located deep underneath Sumeru, with its own unique culture and history.
11. Is Kaeya black or tan?: Kaeya has olive skin, which is often described as tan or brown, but not black.
12. Is Kaeya part Sumerian?: Kaeya is part-Sumeru and part-Khaenri’ahn, making him a unique character with a complex cultural background.

Diversity and Representation

13. Will Sumeru have dark-skinned characters?: Dehya is currently the only dark-skinned character in Sumeru, but there may be other characters introduced in the future who have darker skin tones.
14. What is Fontaine based off of?: Fontaine is inspired by French culture, with a unique blend of European and fantasy elements.
15. How many POC characters are in Genshin?: There are currently only two characters with darker skin tones in Genshin Impact, highlighting the need for greater diversity and representation in the game.