'Horses', a new game developed by Santa Ragione, has been removed from several digital storefronts, including Steam and Epic Games Store, with little explanation from these platforms.
Game Overview and Themes
The three-hour game, set on a farm in Italy, explores themes of power and control through the character of Anselmo, who is isolated and subjected to a rigid schedule of mundane tasks. Players control Anselmo, following a set routine and navigating the oppressive atmosphere of the farm.
What separates 'Horses' from typical horror games is its black-and-white silent film aesthetic, which intensifies the feeling of confinement. Daily chores take a surreal turn when it's revealed that the 'horses' on the farm are actually humans with horse heads, facing control and punishment.
Controversial Elements and Reception
Although the game's haunting visuals and the stark portrayal of power dynamics evoke classic Italian films and Pasolini's 'Salò', its thematic execution has drawn mixed reactions. While the game does not display overtly scandalous content, its portrayal of abuse and control is unsettling, contributing to its removal from prominent gaming platforms.
Despite the graphic nature, many argue the ban was unwarranted as the violence depicted is stylized and restrained. This has raised questions about how digital platforms decide what constitutes unacceptable art.
Artistic Expression and Future Prospects
'Horses' highlights issues of control and power, not only within its narrative but also in the context of its distribution and reception. The game’s removal could fuel discussions around artistic freedom and censorship, with Santa Ragione facing a form of digital exile similar to the game's storyline.
The developers aim to find new venues for 'Horses', suggesting its controversial nature might one day contribute to its recognition as a significant, if unsettling, work of art.
