Despite not featuring overt nudity or explicit sex scenes, Vile: Exhumed was dismissed from Steam right before its release date in July.

In response, the game is now available as free donationware under a Creative Commons license, symbolizing a protest against censorship.

Background

The game, designed entirely with pixel art, encountered a ban for supposedly containing “sexual content with depictions of real people.” Its creator, Cara Cadaver, emphasized that all content is merely implied.

Developer’s Statement

In a message shared on Bluesky, Cadaver expressed frustration over the decision, stating, “This is our response to being censored, and our rejection of the idea that horror can be defined as acceptable or not.”

A Reminder from Cadaver: “I’m just pleased you’re able to play it, however you found it. That’s what matters.”

Donations for a Cause

The game can be freely distributed and shared, with the option to donate. All profits, which total up to 50%, will be donated to the Red Door Family Shelter, a charity supporting families and women escaping violence.

Message from DreadXP

DreadXP’s director, Hunter Bond, commented on the situation: “In light of widespread censorship attempts, we chose to liberate the game to ensure it could be accessible, emphasizing a strong message against censorship.”

Further Considerations

The rejection of Vile: Exhumed represents clear threats to creative freedom, as it highlights the complications that can arise when payment processors and moral debates dictate game availability in digital marketplaces.