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Project Zero/Fatal Frame 5 Review Thread

cwistofu

Member
Seeing a lot of people refusing to buy the game because it's digital and censored, I mean yeah it's their money so their choice but do they realise that Nintendo is just going take that to mean the US market doesn't care for Project Zero and that they made a mistake in localizing it?

Do you really want to take the risk of any future games in the series not getting localized?




From what I have heard superior (lewd) European got the uncensored version. But the getting the copy will be difficult as it's either sold out or can't be shipped out of Europe/UK.

Different spin on your question:

Are you really going to let Nintendo ransom you into giving them your money? Even given the fact that they continue to do things that don't inspire much confidence in them, like digital-only and senseless censoring?
 

mr-paul

Member
Personally, the NA release being censored is the final nail in the coffin for me. I was already hesitant to purchase it, due to it being a digital-only release [with a rather insane download/install size], but if it everything remained intact content-wise, I probably would have tried to fit it on my 32GB Wii U [by deleting stuff] or purchasing an external device [HDD/USB]. However, now that I know that content was cut [I know, "lewd optional content", but content nonetheless] and it's gone from a "maybe" to a "definite pass". It seriously upsets me.

This game is an M-rated game, with talks of suicide/violence/etc. A few scantily-clad optional costumes wouldn't be the end of the world, but I guess we can't have that on a Nintendo console in NA/EU [despite Bayonetta showing quite a bit of skin, as previously mentioned]. There's a few more "sexual" situations present in the main game, I wonder if they censored those too. Knowing Nintendo, I wouldn't put I past them.

This will probably impact sales in NA, but it's not as though NoA really cares anyway. The amount of effort they put into this release [lack of advertising, digital-only, etc.] shows their lack of interest. I know Nintendo are responsible for the Fatal Frame series now and everything, but I wish they would give it to someone else so we could actually have the content as it's presented and, if not, at least the means to import it if we want [thank you, region-lock]. :/

There's a difference between this and Bayonetta. The overt sexualisation is part of Bayonetta's character. In this, there's no reason for the bikini costumes. They're don't contribute anything to the protagonists' characters. They're purely there for fan service and titillation. They're unneeded, and someone at NoE/NoA obviously thought they were unnecessary. Sure, you might have enjoyed seeing them in the bikini, but it really doesn't add anything at all.

If you want to counter that they play a part in a story scene - I thought that part was unnecessary too. Contributes nothing to the story.

And the EU version is just as censored as the US version, as far as I'm aware (haven't played the US version!)
 

mugwhump

Member
Well, that decides it.

If it's uncensored, I'll still buy. Otherwise I'll donate the money to indivisible.

edit: :(
This makes me pretty worried for xenoblade.
 
Ah, just saw it was confirmed censored. Not surprised one bit but, really, just fuck NoA. This is the third time in as many years. It really is just about the principle too. If NX is not region free I'll just buy a JP system and never look back.
 

mr-paul

Member
Do you lot really consider the removal of two silly costumes "censorship"? The rest of the game is exactly the same. Violence, gore, suicide. Just two unnecessary bikinis removed. Are you that desperate to see them? Look them up on the internet, or even look up a pic of a real girl!

Mountains being made out of molehills here.
 

cwistofu

Member
Do you lot really consider the removal of two silly costumes "censorship"? The rest of the game is exactly the same. Violence, gore, suicide. Just two unnecessary bikinis removed. Are you that desperate to see them? Look them up on the internet, or even look up a pic of a real girl!

Mountains being made out of molehills here.

It is censorship. No one's denying that it doesn't impact the core game--it just rubs us the wrong way, especially given the lack of any reasonable justification other than "omg lewd."

P.S. nice classic retreat to the ad hominem argument.
 

mr-paul

Member
It is censorship. No one's denying that it doesn't impact the core game--it just rubs us the wrong way, especially given the lack of any reasonable justification other than "omg lewd."

P.S. nice classic retreat to the ad hominem argument.

It's unnecessary objectification of women that's less acceptable over here in the west nowadays. Surely that's a good enough reason?
 
People really complain about a bikini costume removed? Hilarious.

I don't like censorship. But I don't think this is censored, the bikini costumes were simply a dumb move anyway, hilarious soft porn to please some immature players and doesn't fit the game. The new costumes doesn't fit too, but they are funny at least.

Some bad reviews don't worry me. Many good games have mixed reviews. And a horror game that is not going for cheap scares is not for everyone and the reviews mirror this exactly.
 

KingSnake

The Birthday Skeleton
It is censorship. And it's not because "lewd" but because there are armies ready to fight against any "lewd" and probably NoA doesn't feel that the fight is worthy.

But to not buy this game because those 2 costumes is as extremist as those shouting "lewd" on the other side. Actually it kind of means that one was not interested in the actual game anyhow, as the game is not changed a bit. You have to play it to the end to get those costumes and that's what you actually pay for, to play the game. Unless one wanted to pay just for those costumes, of course. In which case I agree, there are other games out there that do a better job at those.
 

Kusagari

Member
The bikini costumes are dumb but it's just another example of an issue that's happened before. I'd love to know why Nintendo of America is so scared of allowing us Americans to see women in bikinis in T and M rated games.

To actually translate a fully fan service chapter for Fire Emblem and then censor the fan service is hilarious. Don't even bother at that point.
 

Akibared

Member
Different spin on your question:

Are you really going to let Nintendo ransom you into giving them your money? Even given the fact that they continue to do things that don't inspire much confidence in them, like digital-only and senseless censoring?

It's my favorite horror series and I'm not going to let digital only stop me from playing it. The NX being region free would really end this since NOE likes bringing the series over.
 
So how are they going to explain the upcoming batch of lewd conduct simulators they have turned Fire Emblem into? Is that why the 3DS one comes so late, are they cutting half the game? :lol
 

cwistofu

Member
It's unnecessary objectification of women that's less acceptable over here in the west nowadays. Surely that's a good enough reason?

That's a fair point.

It is censorship. And it's not because "lewd" but because there are armies ready to fight against any "lewd" and probably NoA doesn't feel that the fight is worthy.

But to not buy this game because those 2 costumes is as extremist as those shouting "lewd" on the other side. Actually it kind of means that one was not interested in the actual game anyhow, as the game is not changed a bit. You have to play it to the end to get those costumes and that's what you actually pay for, to play the game. Unless one wanted to pay just for those costumes, of course. In which case I agree, there are other games out there that do a better job at those.

I think you'd be hard-pressed to find someone that was going to buy this game purely for the bikini costumes. It's a result of the one-two punch that is the digital-only release followed up with the silent replacement of content with no communication to the consumers. Combine that with generally poor marketing push intertwined with the looming sense of "if this game sells poorly then we really don't see the point of continuing support for this series in your region," and you're obviously going to get a group of fans who feel betrayed and less inclined to give you their hard-earned money.

I'm still going to buy this game. Just not for $50.
 

MiszMasz

Member
There's a difference between this and Bayonetta. The overt sexualisation is part of Bayonetta's character. In this, there's no reason for the bikini costumes. They're don't contribute anything to the protagonists' characters. They're purely there for fan service and titillation. They're unneeded, and someone at NoE/NoA obviously thought they were unnecessary. Sure, you might have enjoyed seeing them in the bikini, but it really doesn't add anything at all.

If you want to counter that they play a part in a story scene - I thought that part was unnecessary too. Contributes nothing to the story.

And the EU version is just as censored as the US version, as far as I'm aware (haven't played the US version!)

I'm unlikely to buy the game anyway - the combination of expensive physical edition, cheaper but large installation digital edition and these lukewarm reviews are making me seriously reconsider - beside any costume removal/replacement stuff.

But you might want to consider that there's a chance - however slim - that people may feel like they don't need NOA or you to think for them, and are instead quite capable of making their own decisions and purchases according to their sensibilities and tastes.
 

kunonabi

Member
It is censorship. And it's not because "lewd" but because there are armies ready to fight against any "lewd" and probably NoA doesn't feel that the fight is worthy.

But to not buy this game because those 2 costumes is as extremist as those shouting "lewd" on the other side. Actually it kind of means that one was not interested in the actual game anyhow, as the game is not changed a bit. You have to play it to the end to get those costumes and that's what you actually pay for, to play the game. Unless one wanted to pay just for those costumes, of course. In which case I agree, there are other games out there that do a better job at those.

I'm still going to buy the game just not from NOA. It's that simple. If NOA is going to continue altering content and treating the franchises I love this poorly then I'll just buy a Japanese NX if they continue their region locked bullshit. It's a stupid decision because the costume is in the story mode which means they either altered that too or they left it in meaning that removal of the costumes as a bonus was worthless to begin with. It was a shitty decision to appeal to people who aren't going to be buying the game anyway and have the option to just not use the costumes unlike the rest of us.
 

impact

Banned
Censoring bikinis in a Mature rated game

and people are wondering why Nintendo is considered a kiddy company. What a fucking joke.
 

Mithos

Member
It is censorship. And it's not because "lewd" but because there are armies ready to fight against any "lewd" and probably NoA doesn't feel that the fight is worthy.

But to not buy this game because those 2 costumes is as extremist as those shouting "lewd" on the other side. Actually it kind of means that one was not interested in the actual game anyhow, as the game is not changed a bit. You have to play it to the end to get those costumes and that's what you actually pay for, to play the game. Unless one wanted to pay just for those costumes, of course. In which case I agree, there are other games out there that do a better job at those.

And if you are one of those shouting "lewd" and do NOT buy the game now when the bikinis are apparently removed..............
 

KingSnake

The Birthday Skeleton
Censoring bikinis in a Mature rated game

and people are wondering why Nintendo is considered a kiddy company. What a fucking joke.

Have you seen the Samus costume? It doesn't have anything to do with the kiddy company. It has to do with the outrage that US is capable when it's about the bathing suit of a 17 years old in a Nintendo game.

And if you are one of those shouting "lewd" and do NOT buy the game now when the bikinis are apparently removed..............

Those are just professional trolls who are able to complain from totally different positions in a matter of seconds.
 

.la1n

Member
By censored are we only referring to the alternate outfit changes? If so then I don't see much to get fussed about. Did the first three games score particularly well because I thought those were all fantastic.
 

Tamanator

Member
By censored are we only referring to the alternate outfit changes? If so then I don't see much to get fussed about. Did the first three games score particularly well because I thought those were all fantastic.

Yep, this is a massive over-reaction. Probably by the same group of people who complain about female representation in gaming. It changes the gameplay in no way, nor the overall experience. But oh no, I refuse to buy this game now because it's missing two optional costumes I probably wouldn't use!
 

kunonabi

Member
Have you seen the Samus costume? It doesn't have anything to do with the kiddy company. It has to do with the outrage that US is capable when it's about the bathing suit of a 17 years old in a Nintendo game.



Those are just professional trolls who are able to complain from totally different positions in a matter of seconds.

If they had such an issue with underage characters in bikini's maybe they shouldn't have littered Tekken Tag Tournament 2 with Nintendo outfits and an exclusive bonus mode if it's going to be such a knock to their image.
 

Akibared

Member
By censored are we only referring to the alternate outfit changes? If so then I don't see much to get fussed about. Did the first three games score particularly well because I thought those were all fantastic.

Yup that's all it is. Based off some people in here it sounds like you will enjoy it if you're a fan.
 

KingSnake

The Birthday Skeleton
If they had such an issue with underage characters in bikini's maybe they shouldn't have littered Tekken Tag Tournament 2 with Nintendo outfits and an exclusive bonus mode if it's going to be such a knock to their image.

That wasn't published by Nintendo I think.

And again the point is not that Nintendo doesn't want to associate the name with bikinis or whatever, but that the scandal is not worthy for 2 bonus costumes in a game that will likely sell quite poorly . It's not that difficult to understand, really.
 

kunonabi

Member
That wasn't published by Nintendo I think.

And again, the point is not that Nintendo doesn't want to associate the name with bikinis or whatever, but that the scandal is not worthy for a game that will likely sale quite poorly. It's not that difficult to understand, really.

Assuming it did turn into another twitter bitch fest who's to say it would really be that hurtful to sales? Some reviews of the mentioned pervy costumes and sexed up females and nobody is really having a meltdown. Considering Nintendo apparently thinks the game is going to tank so badly that they resorted to a free-to-pay digital only release with almost zero marketing than any excuse to get eyes on it and trying out the first few chapters would more likely help sales than do any significant damage to them.
 

Vlaphor

Member
I honestly doubt there would have even been a scandal or that Nintendo would have cared. Most scandals over these types of things are only noticeable online for a short while, then they die down somewhat and then the games sell what they would have regardless The two games this year with the biggest scandal of these types were Witcher 3 and MGS V, which are also two of the highest selling games of this year. That's what publishers notice.
 

big_z

Member
I would probably still get the game, despite the poor reviews, if I found it cheap but thanks to the digital only release that means it will never happen.

Sounds like the game design is closer to 4 than the older ff games which is too bad since 4 wasn't very good either.
 

Amani

Member
I just beat FF2 a day ago for the first time. Reading that 5 has quite a few linear sections is disappointing, to say the least; after exploring villages and houses, exploring a mountain sounded like it'd be a fun new setting.

As for the usual FF horror tropes, I can't say for sure if they're getting stale, since I've yet to play 3 or 4, though I will say that the oppressive, foreboding atmosphere from the first 2 games is where FF seems to shine, rather than straight up spooks and scary imagery. There's also the story to consider. So, I think I'll give it a chance.
 

SephLuis

Member
Having played the first few chapters in a JPN Wii U with some friends, those scores are baffling to me to say the least.

From my impression, the game uses the gamepad really well since it's the camera. You need to aim at the ghosts and even turn to get the best angle to increase damage.

The first areas were also tense and scary (but I have a weak point for those games) with quite a few enemies and lots of room to explore.

I can see why people thought this game was tiring. Beyond the fear, which tires you mentally, you still have to consider all the gamepad controls, which tires you physically. I can't imagine playing this in a single session or even in a few days. I guess this ended up hurting the reviews, the game is better when played through small chunks.
 
The censorship is just the nail in the coffin for most people. It's certainly not going to HELP sales that's for sure. There was plenty to be miffed about already with no physical edition and poor marketing and advertising on Nintendo's part.

It's some stinky shit right here for NoA fans but what can you do eh?. I think I'll hold off on this one.
 

Nairume

Banned
Wasn't this franchise multiplatform before?
Sorta, but they never got simultaneous launches when they were. Fatal Frame 1 and 2 both stayed exclusive to PS2 for about a year before they got updated ports to the Xbox.

Fatal Frame 3 was only ever released on PS2, so that's when they stopped doing multiplat releases.
 

Eila

Member
Fire Emblem had some content censored and it did fine. This is having mediocre reviews + Digital Only, censorship is only the icing on the cake for most.
And Nintendo has done this type of censorship in the past, and will most likely continue. They really try to avoid possible outrages.
 
This is sad.

Not the reviews (I'll get to that in a second) but the reaction to the "censorship" of basically skimpy added costumes that add nothing but titillation. Go ahead and justify it however you want but that IS what the added costumes were. They add no purpose, no added "artistic integrity" to the game other than existing for the sake of fan-service at its worst. I've been looking forward to this game for a long time, basically waiting for a Fatal Frame to finally make it stateside AGAIN since FF 3 which seems like forever ago. These games do give me some of the best tension and scares I've ever had in games, and never once did I think after those games after having unlocked previous skimpy costumes "gee, this was a necessary (or even good) bonus to unlock."

As for the reviews, it's disappointing but I'm still going to buy it and make up my own mind. ZombiU and even W101 went through the same shit, and those have become some of my favorite games on the Wii U. I take a huge grain of salt especially when it comes to Wii U games that aren't typical "Nintendo" games.
 
There's a difference between this and Bayonetta. The overt sexualisation is part of Bayonetta's character. In this, there's no reason for the bikini costumes. They're don't contribute anything to the protagonists' characters. They're purely there for fan service and titillation. They're unneeded, and someone at NoE/NoA obviously thought they were unnecessary. Sure, you might have enjoyed seeing them in the bikini, but it really doesn't add anything at all.

The main character is a gravure idol.
 

konjak

Member
Some of you would really completely skip a game you might enjoy because it removes silly bikinis that have butt cleavage?

You're not making much of a statement when you do, you know.
 

Speedwagon

Michelangelo painted the Sistine Chapel. Yabuki turned off voice chat in Mario Kart races. True artists of their time.
Some of you would really completely skip a game you might enjoy because it removes silly bikinis that have butt cleavage?

You're not making much of a statement when you do, you know.

Not skipping, but not gonna pay full price, especially for digital.
 
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