VILE: Exhumed is an unjust casualty in Steam's sweeping censorship campaign

In a concerning move, Steam has banned the indie game "VILE: Exhumed" from its platform, citing "sexual content with depictions of real people." However, the developer, Cara Cadaver, claims that the game does not contain any such content and is instead a deeply personal project exploring themes of misogyny, sexual entitlement, and parasocial relationships. The ban is not eligible for appeal, effectively removing the game from the mainstream PC gaming market, as Steam enjoys a near-monopoly. This incident highlights the broader issue of vague and sweeping censorship policies being implemented by digital platforms, often in response to pressure from payment processors like Visa, Mastercard, and PayPal. The lack of transparency and clear guidelines has led to the removal of numerous games, including the horror hit "Mouthwashing," often without justification. This censorship raises concerns about the freedom of expression for independent developers, particularly those from marginalized communities. The International Game Developers Association has condemned the situation, urging for clear rules, fair warnings, and the right to appeal. As the debate around online content moderation continues, this case serves as a cautionary tale of the potential for overreach and the silencing of important, if uncomfortable, artistic voices.