After Controversial Removal, Taiwanese Game 'Devotion' Seeks Redemption In the ever-evolving landscape of the video game industry, controversies can often overshadow the artistic merits of a game. Such was the case with Devotion, a critically acclaimed Taiwanese horror title that found itself at the center of a geopolitical firestorm in 2019, leading to its abrupt removal from digital storefronts. Now, nearly half a decade later, the game's publisher, GOG, is reflecting on the difficult decision that shaped its turbulent journey. Devotion, developed by the Taiwanese studio Red Candle Games, was initially released in February 2019 to widespread acclaim. The game, which blended traditional Chinese folklore with psychological horror elements, captivated players with its immersive atmosphere and thought-provoking narrative. However, it wasn't long before the title found itself embroiled in a controversy that would have far-reaching consequences. Shortly after launch, players discovered a in-game asset that appeared to mock Chinese President Xi Jinping, comparing him to the beloved children's character Winnie the Pooh. This political jab, whether intentional or not, was seen as a grave offense by the Chinese government, which has a history of censoring any perceived criticism of its leadership. The backlash was swift and severe. Chinese review-bombing campaigns and coordinated efforts to remove the game from digital platforms quickly followed. Within days, Devotion was pulled from Steam, effectively cutting off the game's access to its primary customer base. This decision, made by the Taiwanese developer in response to the intense pressure, was a devastating blow to the game's commercial and critical success. For the next two years, Devotion remained in limbo, with its future uncertain. Red Candle Games sought to rebuild trust and repair their reputation, promising to release the game on alternative platforms. Finally, in 2021, the game made a tentative return, finding a home on the independent digital storefront GOG. However, the story did not end there. On the same day that Devotion was announced to be coming to GOG, the platform issued a surprising statement, saying they would not be moving forward with the release after all. This unexpected turn of events left many fans and industry observers puzzled and disappointed. In a recent interview with Rock Paper Shotgun, GOG's managing director, Maciej Głosiński, reflected on the decision, acknowledging the difficulty in looking back on it. "It's a difficult thing to reflect on," Głosiński said. "We made the call not to release Devotion, and I think that's something that we still grapple with to this day." The reasons behind GOG's decision to ultimately reject the game's release were not entirely clear. Some speculated that the platform may have been wary of potential backlash or pressure from Chinese authorities, given the game's previous controversy. Others suggested that the platform was simply being overly cautious, prioritizing commercial considerations over artistic expression. Regardless of the specific factors at play, the decision by GOG to not release Devotion once again thrust the game into the spotlight, reigniting conversations about the delicate balance between creative freedom and political sensitivities in the gaming industry. The case of Devotion highlights the broader challenges faced by independent developers and smaller studios when navigating the complex web of global politics, corporate interests, and player expectations. In an era where a single misstep can have devastating consequences, the industry has grappled with the need to strike a careful balance between artistic integrity and commercial viability. For Red Candle Games, the ordeal has been a tumultuous journey. The studio has remained steadfast in its commitment to Devotion, even as the game's fate hung in the balance. In the aftermath of the controversy, the developers have sought to engage with their audience, acknowledging the pain and frustration caused by the game's removal while also reaffirming their creative vision. "We understand the disappointment and frustration that players have expressed," the studio said in a statement following the GOG decision. "We remain committed to our craft and to delivering meaningful experiences that resonate with our audience, even in the face of adversity." This unwavering dedication to their artistic vision has earned Red Candle Games the admiration of many in the gaming community, who have rallied behind the studio's efforts to bring Devotion back into the spotlight. In the years since the initial controversy, the game has found a new lease on life. Despite the setbacks, Devotion has continued to garner critical acclaim, with many hailing it as a masterpiece of psychological horror. The game's unique blend of traditional Taiwanese folklore, atmospheric tension, and thought-provoking themes have resonated with players around the world, solidifying its status as a cult classic. As the industry continues to grapple with the challenges posed by geopolitical tensions and the demands of the global marketplace, the story of Devotion serves as a cautionary tale, but also a testament to the resilience and artistic integrity of independent developers. It is a reminder that, despite the risks and obstacles, the pursuit of creative expression can ultimately triumph, even in the face of overwhelming adversity. Looking ahead, the future of Devotion remains uncertain, but the game's devoted fan base and the perseverance of its creators offer glimmers of hope. As the industry evolves, the lessons learned from this saga may pave the way for a more inclusive and supportive environment for all creators, where artistic vision and commercial viability can coexist in harmony.