San Francisco, California – Void Interactive has confirmed that the upcoming console release of its controversial shooter, Ready or Not, will undergo significant modifications to comply with various certification standards. The adjustments come in response to requirements set by console manufacturers, focusing on aspects such as graphic violence, sexual content, and portrayals of sensitive subjects, including child mistreatment. While these changes are primarily for the console versions, some adjustments could also affect the PC edition.
In a recent update shared on Steam, the developers expressed relief in achieving a PEGI 18, USK 18, and ESRB M-rating on their initial submission, allowing them to move forward with the game’s release. The team emphasized its commitment to maintaining the game’s original tone and integrity despite the necessary alterations.
The decision to modify the game for multiple platforms was fueled by concerns over managing different versions. The developers explained that maintaining distinct assets and mechanics could create additional bugs and complicate updates. For example, inconsistencies in asset design could hinder crossplay functionality, essential for multiplayer experiences. The game’s mechanics must be uniform to ensure seamless interaction among players.
Changes to gameplay elements include a revised approach to dismemberment, which remains a prominent feature yet is now more regulated. Players will experience instances of dismemberment in a more limited context. Additionally, depictions of violence, particularly in character designs, have been toned down to align with the certification standards.
The developers have made specific adjustments regarding sensitive themes, particularly in how the game depicts child mistreatment. For instance, they altered a child’s animation to portray the character as unconscious rather than in a distressed state. This decision reflects the development team’s intent to responsibly address heavy themes while satisfying various certification bodies.
While the team noted that many of the changes are subtle and may not be immediately evident to players, they prioritize transparency about the modifications. Certain graphic content, including nudity and depictions of illicit activities, have been altered, but such changes are confined to console iterations of the game.
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions from the gaming community, with some players expressing their discontent through negative reviews, labeling the amendments as "censorship." This backlash highlights the polarized opinions surrounding artistic expression and content regulation in video gaming.
Scheduled for release on July 15, 2025, the console version of Ready or Not aims to navigate the tightrope between creative vision and regulatory compliance. The game, initially released in early access in December 2022, faced its own challenges after losing its publisher, Team17, shortly after a controversial announcement regarding sensitive content. As the release date approaches, the development team’s efforts may spark ongoing discussions about the balance between artistic integrity and industry standards.