A recent clarification from Itch.io has shed light on the status of the acclaimed game Mouthwashing, which has been a topic of discussion among gamers and developers alike. The platform confirmed that Mouthwashing has been de-indexed since October 2024, a decision not linked to the recent crackdown by payment processors, as initially speculated.
Background on Mouthwashing
Mouthwashing, celebrated for its unique narrative and aesthetic, was hailed by PC Gamer’s Ted Litchfield as one of the standout games of 2024. In his review, he described it as a horror game that delves into the harsh realities of human drama, reflecting on themes of capitalism and the struggles of everyday life. The game’s mature subject matter, while thought-provoking, has raised eyebrows in light of recent industry pressures.
The initial report of its removal from search results came from Martin Halldin of developer Wrong Organ, who expressed that he anticipated such an outcome. Testing confirmed that Mouthwashing was indeed absent from search results on Itch.io, prompting discussions about the implications of payment processor policies on indie games.
Industry Pressures and Policy Changes
Itch.io’s decision to de-index certain titles appears to be a response to external pressures from credit card companies, influenced by campaigns from organizations like Collective Shout. This movement gained momentum following the controversy surrounding the game No Mercy, which faced backlash for its content. In a statement, Itch.io emphasized the need to protect its payment infrastructure while ensuring that creators whose works align with community standards continue to receive support.
Despite the adult-oriented themes of Mouthwashing, which explore the darker sides of human experience, the game’s content does not seem to fit the profile of titles typically targeted by anti-porn advocacy groups. However, the broader implications of financial pressures on creative expression remain a concern for many in the industry.
Clarifications from Itch.io
Following the discussions, Itch.io clarified that Mouthwashing was not indexed due to its failure to meet specific criteria for discoverability on the platform. The game currently directs users to its Steam page via a ‘Download’ button, which has led to its exclusion from search results. Itch.io founder Leaf Corcoran noted that while external links are permissible, pages must offer purchasable or playable content directly on the site to be indexed.
Halldin contested this explanation, asserting that Mouthwashing had been indexed until very recently, suggesting a possible miscommunication regarding the game’s status. As it stands, Mouthwashing remains accessible on Itch.io, but users must navigate directly to its link rather than relying on search functionality.
For those interested, Mouthwashing is still available for purchase on Steam, where it continues to be discoverable. The ongoing dialogue around its indexing status highlights the complex interplay between creative content, market forces, and platform policies in the gaming industry.