Baldur's Gate 3 is toning down its explicit content for its Japanese release. Learn more about the reasons for the changes, which parts of the game will be censored, and other examples of games that have undergone similar alterations.
Baldur's Gate 3 Tones Down Explicit Scenes To Comply to CERO
Japanese Release on December 21
Baldur's Gate 3, scheduled for release in Japan on December 21, differs significantly from its international version. The publisher, Spike Chunsoft, has said that to comply with the Code of Ethics established by CERO (Computer Entertainment Rating Organization), the video game content rating board in Japan, explicit sexual content would be toned down.
Spike Chunsoft has verified that the Japanese version will disable explicit sexual content such as "display of genitals," "display of nudity in cutscenes" and "view sex scenes." Unlike other releases where players can turn nudity on or off, the Japanese edition will have this feature permanently set to "off."
Furthermore, those playing the Japanese edition will not be able to torture NPCs in Act 1's Goblin Camp. These modifications were made to comply with CERO's Code of Ethics, which expressly restricts the display of explicit content, such as sexual themes and specific anatomical representations.
CERO's Impact on Game Ratings
Even though the game was given a Z rating by CERO (Entertainment Software Rating Board), which is the equivalent of an M rating by the ESRB, the developer, Larian Studios, decided to make these changes to comply with CERO's Code of Ethics, specifically Appendix 3, which specifies expressions that are prohibited.
When video games are released in Japan, they frequently face restrictions due to issues of violence and nudity. To comply with CERO's requirements, well-known games like Cyberpunk 2077 (2022), Grand Theft Auto V (2013), and The God of War (2018) have all undergone comparable changes. Although these modifications follow standard procedure, some fans might be disappointed, considering Baldur's Gate 3's reputation for explicit content.
Availability of the PS5 Version
Baldur's Gate 3 for the PS5 will be available in both physical and digital versions in Japan, according to Spike Chunsoft. This action assures that Japanese players can access the next installment of the critically renowned franchise in their preferred format.
