"No Mercy Developers Rally for their Game as They Prepare for Steam Exit"

The recent 3D visual novel titled No Mercy has sparked significant backlash leading to its planned removal from Steam. The game’s content, which includes elements of non-consensual sex and incest, drew scrutiny after UK government official Peter Kyle criticized Valve for permitting its sale on the platform. Following this, Valve acted by pulling the game from the UK version of Steam.

Game Overview and Controversy

No Mercy was released on March 22 on Steam, marketed as a “3D choice-driven adult Visual Novel” with a heavy emphasis on incest and male domination. Players engage in a narrative where they are encouraged to exploit familial relationships, including a storyline that prompts them to “claim” their mother after discovering her infidelity. The Steam description explicitly states, “Unveil her deepest secrets, subdue her, and make all women yours.”

Public Reaction and Government Response

Online reaction to the game’s presence on Steam has been overwhelmingly negative, culminating in a petition on Change.org that garnered over 10,000 signatures calling for its removal. Following mounting pressure, UK technology secretary Peter Kyle expressed concerns regarding the game’s implications. He emphasized the responsibility of tech companies to promptly remove such content under the Online Safety Act.

Delisting Actions and Developer Response

Following Kyle’s comments and the rising public demand for action, No Mercy was subsequently removed from Steam in the UK, as well as in Australia and Canada, likely by Valve’s initiative. In a statement issued on April 10, Zerat Games, the developers of No Mercy, announced their decision to remove the game entirely. Despite the controversy, they defended the game by stating that while real-life incest is reprehensible, elements like rape and domination can be popular kinks for some individuals.

Developers’ Justification

Zerat Games acknowledged the discomfort that the game’s themes evoke in many people, but argued for the acceptance of diverse sexual fetishes that do not harm others. They stated, “If after reading [our statement] you still believe that such a game should not have been created, then we sincerely apologize to you.” The developers maintained that their work remains strictly a game.

Current Availability

As of now, No Mercy remains purchasable on Steam, with assurances that prior purchasers can download, install, and continue to play the game even after its official removal.