Can Vertical Shooters be Erotic? The Steam Heart’s Saturn Tribute Lands on Nintendo Switch
In a move that’s sure to raise some eyebrows, Japanese publisher City Connection is bringing the 1998 Sega Saturn vertical scroller, Steam Heart’s Saturn Tribute, to the Nintendo Switch on May 28th. This retro hardcore-shooter, originally released for PC-98 in 1994 and later for Saturn in 1998, has seen some changes for its modern revival. But what exactly does that mean, and why did Xbox One request “significant changes” to the game’s content?
A Brief History of Steam Heart’s Saturn Tribute
For those unfamiliar, Steam Heart’s Saturn Tribute is a vertical shooter that’s part of the Hentai/fan-servicey style of games. The game’s cutscenes feature explicit imagery, which was toned down in the Saturn version to avoid offending players. The game’s story revolves around viruses, catgirls, and explosions of a personal nature. Yes, it’s a wild ride.
What’s New in the Nintendo Switch Version?
The Switch version of Steam Heart’s Saturn Tribute is based on the Saturn version, with some changes to the cutscenes to make them more suitable for modern audiences. According to City Connection, the cutscenes have been “thoughtfully adapted for a modern revival, respecting the heroines’ privacy while maintaining the essence of the classic.” This means that some explicit imagery has been removed, leaving only audio aspects (moaning) and dialogue.
Gameplay and Modes
Players can expect to enjoy multiple modes, including:
- Story Mode, which unfolds with full voice and visual scenes
- Arcade Mode, focusing purely on shooting action
- Score Attack Mode, where players compete for high scores within a time limit
- Boss Rush Mode, where players battle against a series of bosses
Why Xbox One Blocked the Game
In a surprising move, Xbox One requested “significant changes” to the game’s content, which didn’t align with City Connection’s desire to provide a consistent gameplay experience across all platforms. This led to the game being blocked from release on Xbox One.
Conclusion and Actionable Insights
Steam Heart’s Saturn Tribute is a unique game that’s sure to spark some interesting conversations. While the game’s erotic content may not be for everyone, it’s clear that City Connection is committed to providing a respectful and enjoyable experience for players.
For those interested in trying out the game, the Nintendo Switch version is set to release on May 28th, with a 10% discount available at the time of writing. If you’re looking for a more family-friendly option, City Connection is also releasing ADVANCED V.G., a 2D fighter, on the same day for £13.49.
So, can vertical shooters be erotic? The answer is yes, but it’s up to each individual to decide what they’re comfortable with.