Recently released one-on-one punch-up Fight of Gods was bound to court controversy. But, earlier today, Malaysia blocked access to the entirety of the Steam platform, nationwide, in response to the game's availability.
Malaysia's Dr Salleh Said Keruak has called for all previous downloads of the title to be declared void, or "Further action will be taken."
"Malaysians respect all cultural and religious sensitivities, and the sale and distribution of the religiously insensitive and blasphemous games must be stopped immediately," stated the Communications and Multimedia Minister. "It is in the public interest to ensure that immediate steps are taken so that such contents do not continue to harm others."
The publishers of the game, which sees figures such as Buddha, Zeus and Jesus Christ do battle with one another, quickly reached out to Steam to resolve the situation. It now appears that Steam has returned to live status in the region, with Fight of Gods obviously removed from sale.
A press statement from the publisher reads as follows: "Fight of Gods is a video game that takes a humorous approach to religion in the same way that other entertainment formats have – across television, film, books and theatre. The game is not promoting any religious agenda and is not designed to offend.
The description of the game on the digital platforms through which it is distributed provide clear guidance on the nature of the game and its content so that people can freely choose whether or not to play it. We fully respect the choice of those who would not wish to play it.
We are disappointed that such freedom of choice is not given to everyone and in particular that the game has been forcibly removed from sale in Malaysia, although no direct communication has been received by us as to the reasons for this. Nevertheless we respect any rules and censorship imposed in any given territory."
Malaysia blocks Steam [RiceDigital]
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