Ready or Not Hit by Review Bombs Over PC Censorship Claims

Ready or Not, VOID Interactive's tactical FPS, faces review bombing on Steam following controversial changes implemented to secure its console launch.

In an official statement, VOID explained necessary adjustments to gore, nudity, violence, and "child endangerment depictions" ahead of the July 15 console release. Rather than managing separate versions - which could introduce technical issues - some PC content was modified accordingly.

"During console adaptation, we've strictly limited changes to platform-mandated requirements while preserving the game's core tone," developers emphasized. "Players shouldn't perceive these as alarming alterations."

"Our console ratings remain ESRB M, PEGI 18, and USK 18. However, platform-specific compliance means certain modifications inevitably affect PC builds."

The studio clarified that while simple texture swaps maintained original PC content, comprehensive model changes like adding character clothing proved unavoidable across platforms.

Key modifications include restricting post-mortem dismemberment (live combatants remain vulnerable), reducing torture/nudity elements, and replacing a child's violent seizure animation with an unconscious depiction.

"Changes are subtle enough that most players wouldn't notice unprompted," VOID stated, prioritizing transparency. "Primarily evidentiary/nudity adjustments occur, with PC textures remaining unaffected."

This approach has drawn vehement backlash from segments of the PC community.

"Avoid purchasing," one review demanded. "Having profited from Steam players, VOID now sacrifices artistic integrity to placate console regulators through unnecessary censorship."

"BOYCOTT THIS GAME!!!" railed another player. "NO justification exists for censoring mature-rated content! This laziness betrays consumers who paid for uncut 18+ material!!!"

While maintaining 'Very Positive' lifetime Steam ratings, recent evaluations plummeted to 'Mixed' amid the controversy. VOID hasn't officially addressed criticisms, nor responded to IGN's inquiries.

The game previously faced removal in 2022 following trademark disputes over Prysm nightclub - a level coinciding with the Pulse shooting anniversary.

VOID severed ties with Team17 shortly after revealing plans for a school shooting scenario.