Steam has banned 'Horses', an art-horror game by Santa Ragione, leading to a discussion on censorship. Valve has not clarified the reasons for the ban or accepted an updated game build.
Controversial Themes
'Horses' is known for its disturbing exploration of themes such as fear, repression, and societal control. Players step into the role of Anselmo, a young man working on a farm populated by humans in horse masks. The game addresses sensitive topics like sexuality, slavery, and violence.
- Horses combines film techniques with video game elements.
- The narrative incorporates 4:3 ratio visuals and silent film title cards.
- The gameplay features routinal activities disrupted by unsettling events.
Despite these artistic efforts, the game's progression weakens player agency, moving towards a more linear experience.
Impact and Reactions
The ban has sparked a broader conversation about what subjects games can discuss on major platforms like Steam. 'Horses' attempts to merge art-house cinema with interactive gameplay, creating debate on the boundaries of art and censorship in digital games.
Though flawed in execution, it raises critical questions about artistic expression in the gaming industry.
