All Mode
[Update 12/20/17: ErosVR submitted a new censored version of Virtual Reality Girls and it made it past the Valve censors. This censored version of the game is back up on Steam.]
Steam, the world’s largest online video game store, continues to struggle with its censorship policy. The most recent title to stir up controversy is called Virtual Reality Girls.
Virtual Reality Girls
Virtual Reality Girls is an adult VR game that showcases sexy CGI models as they dance around in various stages of undress. You can watch the official trailer for the game below.
The game launched on Steam November 25th and was taken down just three days later on the 28th. Despite its limited release, the game managed to cause quite a stir with the Steam community. Some members were offended by the game’s content, while others celebrated its racy themes.
Community Reaction
Image: Virtual Reality Girls
One Steam user who bought the game before it was removed made the following comment:
“Played a little, I think it’s ok for the promo price I paid, just waiting on uncensor patch. Like the title said, I haven’t played it much. I’m partly buying games like this because I want to support freedom of expression, (something I think is slowly being taken away via Steam and Patreon)”
The above sentiment is one that many in the gaming community seem to share. With media platforms like Youtube, Steam, and even Patreon tightening their censorship policy, some are concerned it could have a negative impact on independent creators who are finding it increasingly difficult to monetize their work.
The game’s creator, ErosVR, was disappointed with Steam’s decision to remove Virtual Reality Girls. When asked for his reaction, Eros told COGConnected:
“We do not agree with this because there are only dancing girls in this game. You can choose outfit for the girl or let her be naked but nothing more. There aren’t any sexual activities.”
Image: Virtual Reality Girls
Double Standard
The fact that Virtual Reality Girls was still removed even though it didn’t contain any sex makes the case especially interesting. Other games like Outlast and Witcher 3 contain much more explicit scenes yet routinely make it pass Steam’s censors. Without any clear guidelines for creators to follow, Steam’s vague censorship policies seem to disproportionately affect smaller studios.
Image: Virtual Reality Girls
It’s important that independent creators like ErosVR have a way to monetize and distribute their work. Regardless of whether you find their content agreeable, small studios are important for driving competition and pushing the VR gaming industry forward.
Moving Foward
For the time being, ErosVR is working on an alternate version of his game that better complies with Steam’s policy. In an official statement to his fans, ErosVR said:
“We currently are working to change the stuff that might have offended some people. The game will be back on Steam when we resolve all the problems. Those who already bought the game still own it and are able to play.”
Now they’re back on Steam, I think. They must have removed some nudity or something. They should post the uncensored version here!
I guess they can display a warning but removing is not a good step
God I hate censorship.