When you finish playing Horses, it’s hard to feel impressed. This horror game from Santa Ragione has stirred controversy after facing bans from major platforms like Steam and Epic. The reason? Accusations of depicting “sexual conduct involving a minor.” But after playing, it’s unclear what those scenes might be.
Horses isn’t for the faint-hearted, but it doesn’t cross the lines that some may expect. The game is graphic and has a gritty aesthetic that evokes a sense of discomfort. Still, its message about the psychological effects of a restrictive lifestyle feels straightforward and not particularly groundbreaking.
The game follows Anselmo, a young man sent to work on a rural farm. At first glance, it’s a simple premise. However, things take a dark turn when Anselmo discovers that the “horses” he’s meant to care for are actually humans in horse masks, stripped of their humanity. This unsettling twist highlights themes of control and stunted sexual development. The farmer, raised in a strict environment, grapples with his own repressed desires and the harm they inflict on others.
Experts in psychology often discuss how repressive upbringing can lead to severe issues in adulthood. The game illustrates this concept vividly, showcasing how societal norms can warp human behavior. According to a recent survey by the American Psychological Association, over 60% of adults report feeling anxious about expressing their authentic selves due to societal pressures. Horses reflects this anxiety, even though its presentation may be jarring.
Visually, Horses struggles. It has a rough feel, with stuttering graphics that detract from the experience. Some might argue that this ugliness serves a purpose, echoing the grotesque narrative. The unsettling close-ups and silent-film captions contribute to a sense of discomfort. But will players recognize this as intentional artistry or simply poor execution?
One particular scene has drawn significant backlash—where the farmer forces one horse to assault another. Critics argue that this moment is gratuitous, yet it aligns with the game’s themes of sexual violence and psychological distortion. Such portrayals invite conversation but also create a divide between understanding and appreciating the game’s intentions.
Ultimately, Horses aims to convey a message about the impacts of a puritanical lifestyle. While it doesn’t break new ground, it manages to tackle complex themes through its graphic and surreal storytelling. The conversations about its bans raise questions not just about the game but also about how platforms react to controversial material.
Despite its flaws, Horses deserves recognition. The discourse surrounding it highlights the need for deeper examinations of how society treats difficult topics in art. While it may not be revolutionary, it sparks discussions worth having—if only we could engage them in a more compelling game.
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