Steam Removes Propaganda Game Portraying Russian Military in Ukraine Conflict

Steam Deletes Controversial Game Promoting Russian Military Perspectives

Recently, Steam removed a highly controversial game that was perceived as propaganda supporting Russian military actions in Ukraine. The game, titled Squad 22: ZOV, was marketed as a tactical guide for youth military organizations and cadets of Russian military schools. Its removal highlights ongoing debates about content moderation and political influence within gaming platforms.

Game Content and Gameplay Details

Squad 22: ZOV allowed players to command squads of Russian soldiers engaged in battles against Ukrainian armed forces. The game included missions involving capturing prisoners, rescuing hostages, and participating in scenarios based on actual events from the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Players were encouraged to simulate real military operations, which many critics saw as glorifying warfare and Russian military propaganda.

Development and Publishing Background

The game was developed by the relatively unknown SPN Studio and published by Zarobana Entertainment. It was marketed as a “true story” of the conflict, claiming to be based on the experiences of current and former Russian military personnel. The developers stated that the game aimed to provide an authentic perspective on the war, though its political implications drew widespread criticism.

Community and Official Reactions

In Ukraine, the game was condemned as propaganda by the Center for Countering Disinformation. Steam users left negative reviews, criticizing the game for its content and messaging. Prominent figures on social media, especially on the platform formerly known as Twitter, called on Valve, Steam’s parent company, to remove Squad 22: ZOV from the platform.

Steam’s Moderation Process and Developer Insights

According to Alexander Tolkach, the developer of Squad 22: ZOV, Steam’s moderation process took approximately two months—significantly longer than the typical one-week review period. Valve reportedly requested full access to the game’s content to verify its legality and compliance with platform policies.

Origins and Funding of the Project

Tolkach claimed that the idea for the game originated from the Main Military-Political Directorate of the Russian Defense Ministry. He also mentioned that the project was financed by a private investor, suggesting a connection to official Russian military circles. Despite these claims, the game’s distribution was halted in Ukraine, while it remains accessible in other regions.

Recent Developments and Broader Context

Earlier, Russia’s government accused the game publisher Wargaming of extremism due to their support for Ukraine. Wargaming, known for the popular World of Tanks, exited the Russian market amid sanctions, and authorities seized assets of the company, which had sold the rights to the game Tanks. These events underscore the complex relationship between gaming companies, politics, and national interests in the context of the Ukraine conflict.

Alex "Pixel" Petrov

Gaming journalist & industry insider. Covers the latest game releases, updates, and behind-the-scenes dev stories. Knows every Easter egg, patch note, and upcoming title worth hyping. Always gaming, always analyzing.