Forza Horizon 6 has faced significant player backlash over recent months regarding its content moderation system, with many players alleging that Itasha-style car designs have been unfairly targeted. In response, developer Turn 10 Studios has issued an updated code of conduct to clarify the rules surrounding user-generated content.
Itasha, a style of car customization originating in Japan that features bold designs often depicting anime, manga, or video game characters, is a popular form of expression for many players. However, concerns have been raised that the game's moderation system has led to an increase in bans, impacting players who utilize this customization style within Forza Horizon 6's Japan-inspired setting.
Social media platforms and Steam have seen numerous posts from players claiming a large wave of bans, with some suggesting that AI moderators or mass reporting might be involved. These claims have fueled speculation and prompted warnings against purchasing the game, with some players expressing fears that even having a draft livery or a screenshot of a potentially problematic design could lead to a permanent ban.
Turn 10 Studios has addressed these concerns by confirming that all reported content is reviewed by human moderators. The studio emphasized that the number of reports does not influence the prioritization of a content review. In updated guidelines concerning specific iconography and imagery, Turn 10 stated that Itasha designs are permitted, but "explicit sexual content and sexually suggestive content are forbidden." Examples of such content include designs that depict provocative poses, associated gestures, facial expressions, and undue attention to specific body parts.
These updated criteria have drawn criticism for being too vague, with some commenters expressing difficulty in understanding the precise boundaries of what constitutes suggestive imagery. While players typically receive a warning for a first violation, repeat offenses or content falling under the "zero tolerance policy" can result in a permanent ban. This policy includes offenses such as hate speech, violent threats, child sexual abuse material, terrorism, and explicit sexual or nude imagery.
Concerns have been raised that the perceived age of anime characters or suggestive poses in designs, such as those featuring characters in bikinis, might be contributing to bans. This issue echoes similar content moderation challenges faced by platforms like Steam in the past. The game's review status on Steam has shifted to "Mixed," with Japanese reviews highlighting dissatisfaction with the moderation system despite praise for the game's driving and exploration elements.
Comparisons have been made to previous Forza titles, with players feeling that Forza Horizon 6's moderation is stricter. While the game's initial release was lauded for its respectful depiction of Japanese culture, the ongoing moderation issues continue to be a point of contention for a significant portion of the player base. Notably, the ban on imagery like Japan's Imperial flag is not new to the series, with previous Forza entries also having similar restrictions on iconography, including the Confederate flag and Nazi symbols.