Epic Games Store Denies ‘Ghosting’ Horses Developer, Clarifies Policy Violation Context
Epic Games has responded to allegations of making “provably incorrect statements” regarding its handling of the horror game Horses. The game’s developer, Santa Ragione, claims that Epic has not been transparent about the policy violations preventing the sale of Horses on the Epic Games Store.
Overview of Horses
Horses is an indie first-person horror game featuring live-action sequences, set on a horse farm. Players experience the chilling atmosphere over a span of 14 days, engaging in interactions that test their obedience and restraint. The developers describe the game as a journey through “unspeakable horrors” as the reality of the farm reveals itself.
Background on Distribution Challenges
- The game was initially banned from Steam two years ago after an in-progress prototype was submitted.
- Feedback was not detailed, and no appeal process was offered at that time.
- Horses faced another ban in December 2025 for its disturbing imagery.
Despite the controversies, content deemed violent or sexual is not uncommon on major distribution platforms like Steam and Epic. Santa Ragione has criticized these bans as censorship, demanding clearer guidelines and more accountability from the platforms.
Claims and Counterclaims
In response to Epic’s VP Steve Allison’s expression of support for the studio, Santa Ragione countered that they had been effectively “ghosted.” They allege that Epic failed to provide claims’ supporting details and neglected to share an Adults Only (AO) rating certificate necessary for the appeal process.
Epic Games’ Stance
Epic Games maintains that Horses violated its Content Guidelines, specifically regarding inappropriate and abusive content. Brian Sharon, the senior communications manager, explained that their team played the game and assigned it an AO rating based on an unofficial rating questionnaire. Therefore, they assert that this rating makes the game unsuitable for their platform.
Sales and Financial Performance
Despite the challenges faced in distribution, Horses has achieved notable sales figures. The game has sold over 18,000 copies, generating approximately $65,000 in net revenue by mid-December. This revenue has enabled the developers to cover loans and pay royalties to the creator, Andrea Lucco Borlera.
A reviewer from Filmogaz.com rated Horses at 7/10, praising its haunting narrative while noting some repetitive gameplay. The mixed reception highlights the dichotomy between its critical acclaim and the controversies surrounding its distribution.
