Dispatch Switch and Switch 2 censorship has Nintendo Support giving rare eShop refunds

Praised for a convincing player-influenced narrative, Nintendo fans anticipated the Dispatch release date. Unfortunately, unexpected censorship has soured its Switch and Switch 2 debut. With nudity blocked, Nintendo Support is being bombarded by grievances. Despite strict requirements, most gamers have received refunds.

Why Dispatch is censored on the Switch

Unlike with the PS5 and PC versions, there is no option to disable the black bars covering sexually suggestive content. After the outcry began, Dispatch publisher AdHoc Studio issued Nintendo Life a statement. It revealed that the changes were necessary to meet platform-specific guidelines. The company argued that the modifications don’t impact gameplay, but that view isn't shared by critics.

Reddit and social media are full of unhappy gamers who voiced their displeasure with Nintendo Support. A common complaint is that players weren’t made aware of the extensive censorship before purchasing. With little effort, most agents have been willing to issue refunds.

Normally, the gaming giant hesitates to give buyers their money back for digital purchases. The eShop policy is to consider all sales final and to deny requests from unsatisfied customers. However, technical issues that ruin experiences may warrant exceptions.

While surprising to buyers, warning signs surfaced before the Dispatch Switch 2 debut. Altered outfits appeared in a Nintendo eShop graphic for the Digital Art and Comics pack add-on. Still, the more conservative outfits seemed limited to the North American site.

Could AdHoc have avoided the censorship controversy?

Gamers have been debating whether Nintendo or AdHoc is more at fault. One theory discussed by Video Games Chronicle focuses on how certain regions have different attitudes toward nudity than others. For instance, the Japanese CERO objects to adult content that passes with other ratings systems. To appease these restrictions, some Switch and Switch 2 games offer censored versions only in Japan.

AdHoc may not have the resources to maintain several releases simultaneously. Regardless, Nintendo of America also faced scrutiny for preventing the release of the provocative Corpse Party Tetralogy Pack. Meanwhile, it remains widely available in Japan. Frustrated audiences see little consistency in how these standards are applied.