When Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition hit the Nintendo Switch, fans noticed something curious— a “sex” content warning on the European packaging. This unexpected label has left players wondering whether the game includes some previously cut or newly added controversial content.
Back when Xenoblade Chronicles X was first launched on the Wii U in the West, it stirred up a bit of controversy because some content was censored. Compared to the Japanese version, certain costumes were altered, and the option to modify a female character’s bust size was removed. Now that the game has shifted to the Switch, fans are puzzled by the presence of a sex content warning, especially since it’s based on the Western censored version, even in Japan.
Interestingly, both the Wii U and the new Switch version have kept the same ratings: a T from the ESRB in the US and a PEGI 12+ in Europe. However, the European Switch edition has surprised many by including a new sex content warning. Previously, the game only flagged for bad language and violence. This left the community buzzing with speculation, as some questioned if previously censored material had somehow re-emerged.
So, what sparked this new sex content caution? The PEGI rating cites a particular piece of dialogue featuring the line “I’m going in for a quickie” among other suggestive comments. It’s conceivable this reflects the game’s expanded content, though such suggestive dialogue existed in the original release without triggering this warning back then.
Meanwhile, in the US, the ESRB’s content description, which once highlighted sexual dialogue, has been pared down. It still notes suggestive themes, lingering camera angles, and revealing outfits, but shields away from previous details. Many fans were hoping for an uncensored experience, but Monolith Soft and Nintendo maintained their decision to present Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition based on the Western alterations.
For those keen to explore the mech-fighting adventures and lush landscapes of Xenoblade Chronicles X, the controversy surrounding its content warnings doesn’t seem to hinder its appeal. This curious case of differing content standards continues to spark conversations among gamers worldwide, illustrating the nuanced differences in global media ratings.
