Visual Censorship in Dispatch Remains Unchangeable on Switch

AdHoc Studios is set to release its superhero narrative adventure game, Dispatch, on the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. The game gained popularity on PC and PS5 for its humor and adult-oriented themes. However, players expecting to enjoy the same experience on Nintendo platforms will notice significant changes.

Visual Censorship in Dispatch on Switch

The Nintendo Switch versions of Dispatch will feature a mandatory ‘Visual Censorship’ setting. Unlike the PC and PS5 editions, where players had the option to toggle this feature, the Switch removes that flexibility entirely. This means that any explicit visuals—including nudity and obscene gestures—will be hidden by default.

Content Adaptation for Nintendo

Despite the censorship, all scenes from the game’s eight episodes remain intact. However, they will include a black censor bar that obscures any explicit content. Examples of what’s covered include:

• Genitals
• Exposed breasts
• Profane gestures, such as the middle finger

In a statement regarding the removal of the censorship toggle, AdHoc Studios explained, “Different platforms have different content criteria, and submissions are evaluated individually. For our Switch release, we worked with Nintendo to adapt certain elements so Dispatch could be on their platform.”

Audio Changes in Key Scenes

Another significant adjustment to the Switch version is the modification of certain audio in particular scenes. For instance, a steamy scene in episode four, which initially featured explicit dialogue, now lacks any vocal audio, even with the profanity filter enabled. However, players can still choose to disable the Profanity Censorship to hear the swearing in the game.

Nintendo’s History with Censorship

This isn’t the first time Nintendo has encountered issues related to content censorship. The company has a long history of requiring alterations for various games, ranging from the notorious gore censorship in Mortal Kombat during the ’90s to contemporary adjustments in titles like Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore. However, there are exceptions, such as Cyberpunk 2077, which maintained its explicit character customization.

Player Reception of Censorship

Despite the built-in censorship, early reviews suggest that the changes may not detract from the overall enjoyment of Dispatch. Many players find the censor bars amusing and believe they do little to diminish the game’s appeal. One reviewer noted, “Dispatch is the kind of superhero drama that draws you in with the sexy characters and funny one-liners and hooks you until the bitter end with the potential of its ever-changing arcs.”

The decision regarding censorship for the Switch version remains a point of discussion among fans. What are your thoughts on these censorship changes in Dispatch? Share your opinions with us in the comments below.