VILE Exhumed released as a free shareware title

Changes in policies on adult games are impacting diverse creators and their projects.

Banned Steam game VILE Exhumed returns as free shareware title

Solo developer Cara Cadaver has released her game VILE: Exhumed as free shareware after it was banned from Steam without the possibility for appeal. The game is now available under a Creative Commons license, allowing players to download it for free while also giving the option to donate. Donations will support Cara's development work and, notably, half of the proceeds will benefit the Toronto-based Red Door Family Shelter, which supports families and women escaping violence. The recent bans on adult content from platforms like Steam and Itch.io have created challenges for underrepresented developers, affecting their ability to share their work with audiences.

The removal of VILE: Exhumed from Steam highlights a worrying trend where developers, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, face significant hurdles in accessing mainstream platforms. With major policies changing under pressure from payment processors, many indie creators find themselves squeezed out of the market. By opting to distribute her game as shareware, Cara Cadaver not only retains creative control but also fosters community support through donations, bridging the gap created by the platforms' restrictive measures. This situation reflects a broader movement within indie gaming that prioritizes inclusivity and social good, potentially paving the way for new business models.

Highlights

The future of indie gaming may rest on the ability to adapt to new distribution models.