Dispatch Has Found The Funniest Possible Way To Fix Its Switch Censorship
For Dispatch players on Nintendo Switch, a new patch titled "HR Violations Pack" has been released, offering a more relaxed approach to the game's censorship. This update allows players to remove some of the game's more restrictive content, including the ability to view "breasts, butts, and birds (AKA, obscene gestures)." The patch is available in the US, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, giving players more control over their experience.
Instead of the original intrusive black bars used to censor content, AdHoc, the game's developer, has introduced a few alternatives. Players can now choose from a mosaic filter or even a humorous option that covers characters with jorts—ideal for fans of John Cena's signature style. However, the studio notes that Nintendo's hard requirements still apply, meaning that genitalia won't be visible, and certain erotic audio effects remain restricted.
How Did The Switch Version End Up So Censored?
As explained by AdHoc in a post on GameSpot, the initial Switch version of Dispatch was released under pressure. The studio used a single build that met "Nintendo's strictest regional rating," which resulted in a more heavily censored game than expected. This decision was made due to time and resource constraints as the game approached its launch date.
The developer admitted that many players had preordered and wishlisted the game based on what they saw in trailers, previews, and reviews from its original PC and PS5 launches. AdHoc acknowledged that it should have been more transparent with Switch players about the censored experience they would receive. "For that, we're truly sorry," the studio wrote. "But you stuck with us. And the good news is that the success you all brought Dispatch gave us the opportunity to make this right."
New Censorship Options Across Platforms
The new censorship options won't be exclusive to Switch. They will also appear on other platforms, including the upcoming Xbox version scheduled to launch later this summer. The Switch release of Dispatch, which was critically acclaimed, faced backlash and a wave of refund requests after players discovered the censorship. Last year, AdHoc openly acknowledged that players had the right to be "pissed" about the situation and were working to correct it.
Despite the controversy, Dispatch was widely praised as one of the best games of last year. While it was overlooked during awards season, its strong reception has led to speculation that Season 2 of the game might already be in development. With the new patch, players can now enjoy a more authentic and uncensored experience, proving that even in the face of strict platform guidelines, developers can find creative and humorous ways to adapt.
