Superhot VR Removes Self-Harm Scenes in New Update

Superhot VR got a new update numbered 1.0.22.1 which removed some disturbing scenes alluding to self-harm from the game, causing a bit of an uproar with their users. The timing is certainly peculiar as the game is now over 5 years old.

Developer Superhot Team made a post in their Steam community arguing that the previous option to “Skip disturbing scenes” was not enough and that now they have removed all scenes alluding to self-harm, even regretting it took them that long. The dedicated forum discussion includes about 25 pages of mostly negative users’ reactions to the change.

Below you can read the official statement.

“Skip disturbing scenes” toggle was added in a previous update. Considering sensitive time we’re living in, we can do better than that. You deserve better. All scenes alluding to self harm are now completely removed from the game. These scenes have no place in superhot virtual reality. We regret it took us so long.

We’re commited to shipping this update to all vr platforms.

-superhot team”

Superhot is kind of a mix between FPS and puzzle-solving in which you have to eliminate enemies in a VR environment inside the game. It also plays a lot with mind control and brainwashing themes, even flashing a recurrent “OBEY”.

The parts alluding to self-harm, which we won’t spoil (can we even spoil it if it’s no longer there?) could be triggering for some. The game is rated T for Teen at the ESRB, which means that players as young as 13 years old could have access to it.

Superhot was originally published in February 2016, with the VR version in December 2016. We reviewed the original game back when it came out, and it was a fun experience, albeit a bit short. It’s available now on PS4, Xbox One, Switch, and PC.