Saudi Arabia Reportedly Censors Spider-Man 2

Highlights

Marvel's Spider-Man 2 has reportedly been censored in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, removing LGBTQ+ elements from the game's content.

In the Middle East release, Arabic voice acting is supported; however, certain modifications have been implemented, including the removal of Pride flags and amendments to a side mission involving a gay couple. It is yet unknown if further alterations have been made, such as the portrayal of Black Cat no longer indicating her bisexuality.

Marvel's Spider-Man 2 appears to have undergone censorship in order to be released in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The game's LGBTQ+ elements were modified prior to its launch in the region. As a result, the game was not initially available for purchase in the Middle East, but it has now been released, featuring Arabic voice acting and writing while omitting the LGBTQ+ content.

According to online reports, the Saudi Arabian and UAE versions of Spider-Man 2 have reportedly removed Pride flags from the open world New York City setting and have made alterations to a side mission involving a gay couple. In these specific missions, players are originally tasked with assisting a student in asking their boyfriend to homecoming. However, in the Middle Eastern version, the romantic relationship between the two boys has been removed.

There is the possibility that further changes may be discovered as Spider-Man 2 fans in Saudi Arabia and the UAE continue to play the game and share their findings on social media. For instance, it is uncertain whether Black Cat's bisexual identity remains intact in this version of Spider-Man 2. In the international release of the game, Black Cat mentions having a girlfriend, a concept that may conflict with the guidelines set by Saudi Arabia's General Authority of Media Regulation.

It will be intriguing to observe the community's response to this censorship, particularly considering Spider-Man 2's strong emphasis on inclusivity and representation of minority groups. Regrettably, this is not the only controversy surrounding the game, as Insomniac recently mistakenly included a Cuban flag instead of a Puerto Rican one on the wall of Miles' apartment. Insomniac promptly addressed this flag issue through an update, but it is probable that the elimination of LGBTQ+ elements in specific game versions is beyond their control. Marvel's Spider-Man 2 is currently available exclusively for PS5.

Source: Arab News Japan, Bounding Into Comics, Niche Gamer