Void Interactive’s tactical shooter, Ready or Not, is facing a wave of backlash on Steam, as PC players review-bomb the game over recent censorship decisions tied to its upcoming console debut.
Originally launched in early access in 2021, Ready or Not gained a dedicated PC player base and achieved major success following its full release in December 2023. With over 55,000 concurrent players at peak, the SWAT-style shooter stood out as a tactical and gritty experience. However, with the console launch for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S set for July 15, 2025, recent developer choices have ignited controversy.
Censorship Sparks Outrage
Void Interactive recently confirmed that changes are being made to reduce Ready or Not’s levels of violence and nudity, aligning with content standards required for console platforms. These changes, although primarily made to meet Sony and Microsoft guidelines, are also being implemented on PC to support future cross-play functionality.
This move triggered immediate backlash from the PC community. Many longtime fans feel betrayed, arguing that the game’s raw, uncompromising tone was part of what made it appealing. Some players see the developer’s decision as compromising its vision for broader market acceptance.
Review-Bombing Takes Over Steam
The backlash has manifested most visibly on Steam, where Ready or Not has been hit with a wave of negative reviews. The review-bombing spree began on June 28—the same day the censorship plans were announced.
Since then, the game’s “Recent Reviews” rating has dropped to “Mixed.” Statistics show that 64% and 78% of user reviews on June 28 and June 29, respectively, were negative. On June 30, around 25% of reviewers continued to rate the game poorly. Over the past 30 days, 36% of all reviews submitted were negative, underscoring the scale of community frustration.
Fans Decry ‘Punishment’ for Supporting the Game Early
Recurring complaints in recent reviews highlight a core sentiment: PC players feel punished for supporting the game since its early days. They argue that adapting the game to console standards shouldn’t come at the cost of changing the version they paid for and supported.
Mission changes and the reduction of mature content are being seen as a betrayal by the original fanbase, many of whom believe the integrity of the tactical shooter is being compromised in pursuit of a broader audience.
What Comes Next for Ready or Not?
As the game approaches its PS5 and Xbox Series X/S launch, Void Interactive now finds itself in a difficult position. Whether the studio will adjust its course or hold firm on these changes remains to be seen. For now, the backlash continues to build, with the Steam community making it clear that they want their voices heard.
The coming days will likely determine whether Void Interactive can strike a balance between console compliance and loyalty to its core PC fanbase—or risk alienating the very players who helped put Ready or Not on the map.
