Some Fans Think Ready or Not Dev Went Back on Its Word

Some Ready or Not players have argued that VOID Interactive’s censorship contradicts its previous promise to include content that mainstream developers might avoid. Things are currently not looking up for Ready or Not, as hundreds of fans are protesting the developer’s decision to cut some content.

Ready or Not is facing ongoing backlash, with fans review-bombing the game. Most of the criticism centers on frustration with console gaming standards being forced onto PC players. For those unfamiliar, the game recently toned down gore, nudity, and other elements on PC to align with the upcoming console release. In response, many fans are pointing to an earlier VOID Interactive statement that apparently promised the game wouldn’t follow mainstream media standards.

Ready or Not is Poised to Fill the SWAT-Shaped Hole in Console Gamers’ Hearts

Sierra Entertainment’s SWAT games may never come to current-gen consoles, but at least Ready or Not will be there to fill in the gaps.

Amid the controversy surrounding Ready or Not‘s school mission in 2021, the developer released an official statement. In it, the team reaffirmed its commitment to delivering content that other studios might shy away from. The statement also emphasized a focus on authenticity and realism, even when tackling difficult subject matter. Some fans now argue that the game’s compliance with mandatory censorship contradicts that vision.

Fans Speculate on VOID Interactive’s True Motivations

VOID Interactive’s 2021 statement also noted that the team wouldn’t let the voice of customers or partners dictate its decisions. However, frustrated fans believe the studio has caved to pressure from mainstream publishers, allowing them to influence how the game looks and plays. Others think the censorship in Ready or Not has little to do with console regulations. In their view, the developer is deliberately softening the game to appeal to a broader audience and boost profits.

As of this writing, the developer has yet to respond to the backlash. It seems like the team is moving forward with the changes and encouraging the fanbase to adapt to the new, less-graphic version of Ready or Not. Some early signs, however, suggest the community may push back against the changes. In addition to the wave of negative Steam reviews, the censorship announcement on the Steam Community page has zero likes and over a thousand comments—a possible indicator of opposition.

What adds to the pressure is that Ready or Not‘s console release is fast approaching. So, even if the team wanted to reverse its decision, there seems to be little time left, leaving VOID Interactive in what many view as a no-win situation. It remains to be seen whether this decision will ultimately hurt the game’s reputation or player base in the upcoming days.