The fighting game genre often receives criticism for sticking to a predictable formula that has been used repeatedly. However, there are rare instances when a title breaks free from this mold and offers a fresh experience. Skullgirls, developed by Reverge Labs, is one such game that defies expectations.

This 2D fighter stands out with its unique hand-drawn art style, which adds a distinctive flair to the gameplay. However, the character designs, with their anime-like cuteness, have occasionally raised eyebrows due to controversial imagery and themes. Surprisingly, attempting to rectify these perceived “mistakes” has sparked another controversy.

Skullgirls changes due to “poor taste”

Within just 24 hours, Skullgirls received over 600 negative reviews on Steam following a patch that primarily adjusted and removed artwork that the developers felt did not align with their current “values” or their vision for the game’s future. Despite its overall “Very Positive” rating on Steam, the recent review average has plummeted to “Mostly Negative.”

The “Content Updates and Revisions” patch, implemented on June 26, affected the PC, console, and mobile versions of Skullgirls. Game director Charley Price summarized the changes in a forum post, focusing on three key aspects:

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1. Addressing allusions to real-world hate groups is evident in the attire and iconography of the game’s Black Egret army, specifically their Nazi-like red armbands.
2. Removing instances where characters were perceived to be fetishized or subjected to undue sexualization, with particular attention to younger characters.
3. Modifying content that was deemed in poor taste with regard to race.

“While Skullgirls is no stranger to characters that confidently express their sexuality, there are instances in the game where characters are fetishized and/or have sexualization imposed upon them,” said  Charles Price, the Creative Director for the game.

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Some of the adjustments were limited to the artwork displayed in galleries, involving the removal of four fanart pieces and modifications to 15 official illustrations. However, several changes were also made to in-game animations and story mode art.

In addition to artwork alterations, other changes were implemented as well. The “Soviet Announcer” voice pack was removed, and the phrase associated with 18-hit combos, previously “Barely Legal,” was replaced.

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While the Skullgirls community remains divided over these revisions, it is evident that the developers aimed to align the game with their evolving vision and values. Only time will tell how this controversy will impact the future of Skullgirls and its dedicated fanbase.