Dispatch Censorship Explained on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2
The recent release of the superhero narrative adventure game *Dispatch* on the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 has sparked controversy due to censorship issues. Developed by AdHoc Studio, a team formed by veterans from Telltale Games, Ubisoft, and Night School Studio, *Dispatch* has been praised for its engaging art style and humor. However, its latest versions on Nintendo’s platforms have limited access to certain adult content found in other editions.
Summary of Censorship Issues
*Dispatch* features scenes that include nudity, which have been altered in the Switch and Switch 2 versions. Players discovered that a visual censorship option, which is present in all game versions, is enabled by default on these consoles, preventing players from opting out. Notably affected is a comedic scene involving the character Blonde Blazer. The original dialog relies on subtlety, but a large black bar that obscures part of the scene undermines this intent.
Reasons for Censorship
AdHoc Studio has stated that the decision to enforce censorship was necessary to comply with the content standards required for Nintendo eShop releases. The studio explained that “different platforms have different content criteria.” While the core gameplay remains unchanged, the adaptation was made to fit Nintendo’s operating guidelines.
Community Reactions and Comparisons
The response from the gaming community has been mixed. Some players accuse Nintendo of inconsistency in its content policy, especially as many adult-themed titles are available on the eShop. Over 100 games categorized as “Hentai” can be found, even though they may not include explicit nudity.
- Superhero narrative game: *Dispatch*
- Developed by AdHoc Studio
- Released on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 in 2023
- Censored content includes nudity and gestures
- Default setting prevents players from disabling censorship
Challenges with Regional Releases
The issue may also stem from how Nintendo manages game sales across different regions. The Nintendo eShop often lists a single version of a title that is adaptable based on console settings. For instance, a player could download *The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild* and change the language depending on their region.
Japan’s rigorous content ratings board, CERO, strictly regulates nudity and violence, which may explain the need for censorship. Therefore, the standard applied to all eShop regions could lead to universal restrictions.
Potential Solutions
A possible approach to resolve this censorship issue could involve releasing multiple versions of *Dispatch*, each tailored to different regional standards. This model was successfully implemented by CD Projekt for the Switch 2 edition of *Cyberpunk 2077*, where a distinct CERO Z-rated version was offered in Japan, devoid of nudity.
However, as an independent studio, AdHoc may prefer a more cost-effective strategy, opting for a single global version that simplifies future updates and patches. Further clarification from the studio regarding these issues is anticipated.
