EA Japan’s Exec Slams CERO Rating Board for Dead Space Ban

EA Japan’s general manager, Shaun Noguchi, has recently criticized the Japanese rating board, also known as the Computer Entertainment Rating Organization (CERO), for the Dead Space ban. Noguchi’s comments came after CERO gave a D rating to developers Shift Up’s Stellar Blade, allowing its sale in Japan, while refusing to rate the 2023 Dead Space Remake.

The upcoming action-adventure game by Sony Interactive Entertainment, received a CERO D rating, indicating that it is suitable for players aged 17 and above. However, the Dead Space remake, developed by Motive Studio and published by EA, was not rated by CERO, effectively banning its console version in Japan.

Shaun Noguchi on Stellar Blade Ban and Dead Space Ban by Rating Board

EA Japan’s general manager has expressed his frustration with CERO’s decision, particularly highlighting what he perceives as similar levels of graphic content between the two games. He posted screenshots from the Stellar Blade demo on X, showcasing scenes of severed limbs and visceral gore, questioning why Dead Space was not rated despite featuring comparable graphic content.

In his post, Noguchi emphasized his dissatisfaction with CERO’s review process, suggesting that the organization’s criteria for rating games lack clarity and consistency. He clarified that his criticism was directed towards CERO and not Stellar Blade itself, acknowledging that he found the game enjoyable and recommending it to others.

Stellar Blade Team’s Response

Stellar Blade’s official account on X responded to Noguchi’s comments, affirming that the game offers the same uncensored version in all countries, including Japan.

The controversy surrounding the rating decisions of CERO highlights ongoing debates within the gaming industry regarding the regulation of graphic content and the consistency of rating processes across different regions.

Dead Space already had lacking sales overall, so not being released in Japan was another blow to the developers.