Horses: The Controversial Horror Game That Defied Deplatforming

In recent months, the gaming industry has witnessed a surge in controversy surrounding indie game developers and their titles. One such game that has caught attention is Horses, a horror game developed by Italian studio Santa Ragione. Despite being deplatformed from Steam and Epic Games Store, Horses has managed to sell over 18,000 copies, raising questions about the impact of deplatforming on indie game sales.

Background

Horses was first released in January 2023 for PC and later ported to other platforms. The game's storyline revolves around a mysterious, atmospheric setting that slowly unravels into a terrifying experience. Players take control of an unnamed protagonist who finds themselves stranded in the middle of nowhere with no recollection of how they got there.

The game's eerie atmosphere, paired with its unsettling sound design and visuals, has garnered attention from horror fans worldwide. However, Horses' success also led to criticism about its narrative choices and the way it tackles sensitive topics such as identity, trauma, and mental health.

Deplatforming and the Fallout

In late February 2023, Santa Ragione announced that Horses would be removed from Steam and Epic Games Store due to concerns over the game's content. The deplatforming decision was met with significant backlash from the gaming community, with many fans expressing their disappointment and frustration on social media.

The controversy surrounding Horses' removal from digital storefronts raises questions about the role of platform holders in regulating indie games. Some argue that platforms have a responsibility to ensure that games meet certain standards before allowing them to be sold, while others believe that this can stifle creativity and innovation in the industry.

Sales Numbers and Community Support

Despite being deplatformed, Horses has managed to maintain a significant level of sales and community support. According to data from various tracking websites, over 18,000 copies of Horses have been sold across different platforms. This figure is particularly impressive considering that many indie games struggle to reach even a fraction of this number in their first year of release.

The game's continued success can be attributed in part to the dedication and enthusiasm of its fan base. Online communities dedicated to Horses have sprung up on social media platforms, where players share theories about the game's narrative and discuss their experiences with fellow fans. This level of community engagement is a testament to the game's ability to spark meaningful conversations and connections among players.

Impact of Deplatforming on Indie Game Sales

The story of Horses serves as a reminder that deplatforming can have significant consequences for indie games. The removal of games from digital storefronts can make it difficult for developers to reach their target audience, particularly in the early stages of a game's release.

While some platform holders may remove games due to concerns over content or compliance with certain standards, others may do so due to more commercial reasons. In the case of Horses, the deplatforming decision appears to have had little impact on the game's sales figures.

However, for other indie developers, this experience may serve as a cautionary tale about the risks and challenges associated with releasing games in the modern gaming landscape. As the industry continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see more examples of deplatforming and its consequences for indie games.

Lessons Learned

The success of Horses despite being deplatformed offers several lessons for the gaming industry:

1. Community support can be a powerful driver of sales: The dedication and enthusiasm of Horses' fan base have played a significant role in the game's continued success.
2. Deplatforming can backfire for indie developers: Removing games from digital storefronts can limit their exposure and impact, potentially harming their commercial prospects.
3. Platform holders must strike a balance between regulation and freedom of expression: While ensuring that games meet certain standards is essential, it is also crucial to allow for creativity and innovation in the industry.

Conclusion

Horses' story serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by indie developers in the gaming industry. Despite being deplatformed from Steam and Epic Games Store, the game has managed to maintain a significant level of sales and community support. As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential for platform holders and developers alike to strike a balance between regulation and freedom of expression.

In the end, Horses' success is a testament to the power of indie games to spark meaningful conversations and connections among players. As we look to the future of gaming, it will be fascinating to see how this game and others like it continue to shape our understanding of what makes great games and how they can thrive in an increasingly crowded market.

Recommendation

For fans of horror games or those interested in exploring the world of indie gaming, Horses is definitely worth checking out. While its narrative choices and sound design may not be for everyone, the game's atmosphere and tension are sure to provide a thrilling experience.

If you're looking for similar games or want to explore other titles from Santa Ragione, be sure to check out their website or follow them on social media to stay up-to-date on their latest projects.