Blue Protocol, an ambitious MMORPG from Bandai Namco Studios, has created a buzz since its initial announcement. However, in its journey to global accessibility, certain controversies have been cropping up, particularly regarding Amazon's role in modifying the game for a Western audience.
Background
The controversy first arose months back when an initial network test revealed altered in-game costumes in the U.S version compared to the original Japanese release. It was speculated then that Amazon was implementing censorship to cater to Western sensibilities. Recently, as the first glimpse of the Amazon version of Blue Protocol came into the limelight, these suspicions were confirmed.
Amazon's Justifications
Amazon addressed these allegations in an interview where they indeed confirmed the implementation of certain censorships to render the game more palatable to a Western audience. Some of the key changes included the elimination of the "Shake" button, associated with character physics, and the alteration of particular character outfits, specifically those of the child avatars.
The Face-Off Over Face Options
Amazon's censorship did not stop at outfits and features but extended to the erasure of an entire character face option. The Western version of Blue Protocol showed only two face options, as opposed to the three options available in the Japanese version. The missing face option, which correlated with smaller, presumably younger characters, was notably absent in the Western release. This particular face was not only displayed prominently in the original promotional video but also emerged as the most popular choice among players during network tests in Japan.
Amazon's Quest for Western Appropriateness
Amazon's censorship raises significant questions about creative freedom, player preferences, and cultural adaptability in game localization. Interestingly, their marketing campaign emphasizes customization, asserting that in Blue Protocol, "the options are nearly limitless." Yet, these options appear to be significantly limited by what Amazon deems appropriate for a Western audience.
Censorship Beyond Character Choices
Apart from character customization, Amazon's censorship extended to in-game non-playable characters (NPCs). For instance, the child NPCs who sported skirts in the Japanese version were altered for the Western release. Despite the commonplace nature of skirts for children in Japan, Amazon seems to have viewed this aspect as problematic for a Western audience.
Echoes of Past Censorships
This isn't the first time Amazon has faced scrutiny over its censorship policies. Previously, with the game Lost Ark, Amazon made significant alterations to the original outfits, rendering them more conservative for the Western release. The company seems to have continued its pattern of sanitizing content to align with its perception of Western standards.
Looking Ahead
These changes raise questions about cultural interpretations, sensitivity, and the concept of "fit" within gaming. Amazon's decisions reflect a cautious approach towards Western sensibilities, but at what cost? It could potentially alienate a large section of the audience that prefers authenticity over unnecessary modification.
In conclusion, while the conversation around cultural sensitivity and respect is crucial in this globally-connected era, game developers and publishers should also consider player preferences and authenticity. Striking a balance between these elements is challenging, but it is the key to successful game localization.
