Developer Zerat Games has made the decision to withdraw its contentious visual novel from the Steam platform. In a statement on the now-removed store page, the studio expressed its desire to avoid any complications with Valve, while staunchly defending the themes present in the game, which include incest and sexual violence. The studio characterized these elements as mere fetishes that some individuals might find appealing.
Defending Creative Expression
“I fully understand that for many people such things may be disgusting,” Zerat Games articulated. “However, during intimate moments, individuals should feel free to explore their desires, provided that no one is harmed in the process.” This sentiment was echoed in their apology to those who might find the game objectionable, urging a broader acceptance of human fetishes that do not inflict harm, despite their potentially unsettling nature.
The game’s removal follows a quiet exit from the UK, Canada, and Australia, where Valve took action against the title. UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has publicly condemned the content, stating, “That sort of vile material is already currently illegal. We have stronger powers being brought in as part of the online safety act to ensure that platforms of all kinds meet certain standards.” She further noted that these regulatory measures are currently being implemented.
As the conversation around content regulation and creative freedom continues to evolve, Zerat Games remains firm in its belief that, at its core, the game is simply that—a game. The studio hopes to foster a dialogue that encourages openness to diverse expressions of human sexuality, even when they challenge societal norms.
