Devotion, the critically acclaimed psychological horror game developed by Taiwanese studio Red Candle Games, has long been the center of a unique controversy in the gaming world. Originally released in February 2019, the game gained significant attention for its unsettling atmosphere, rich storytelling, and deeply emotional themes. However, its sudden removal from Steam just days after launch raised questions and led to a flurry of speculation, political discourse, and debates about censorship. For those still wondering if Devotion is on Steam, the answer is more complicated than a simple yes or no. Understanding its current status requires looking at its history, content, and the surrounding controversy.
What Is Devotion?
A Deep Psychological Experience
Devotion is a first-person narrative-driven horror game that explores themes of family, mental illness, and religious belief in 1980s Taiwan. The game follows a troubled father named Du Feng Yu as he searches through a twisted recreation of his home, haunted by memories and regrets. The setting is claustrophobic, the visuals are deeply symbolic, and the storytelling is nonlinear, slowly unraveling the secrets of the Du family and their tragic past.
Developed by Red Candle Games
Red Candle Games, also known for their previous hit Detention, crafted Devotion with a strong cultural and historical influence. The game’s environment is rich with references to Taiwanese traditions, architecture, and superstitions. Their dedication to authentic storytelling and artistic integrity set the game apart, making it stand out even among other psychological horror titles.
The Game’s Initial Steam Release
Launch and Early Praise
When Devotion was first released on Steam, it was met with widespread praise. Players and critics alike admired its immersive storytelling and emotional weight. Many compared its psychological depth to titles like Silent Hill or PT, though Devotion maintained a unique identity rooted in its Taiwanese setting and folklore.
Controversy and Removal
Shortly after its release, players discovered an in-game poster that appeared to mock Chinese President Xi Jinping, comparing him to Winnie the Pooh a symbol of political satire that has been banned in mainland China. This discovery sparked outrage among Chinese gamers and government-affiliated voices online. Due to intense backlash and review bombing, Red Candle Games removed the game from Steam to address the issue.
Steam Delisting
Despite the developer’s apology and the removal of the offending image, Devotion never returned to Steam. Red Candle Games cited publisher-related complications and an unfavorable environment as reasons for not relisting the game. Since then, fans have repeatedly asked, Is Devotion on Steam again? The answer remains no, and it’s unlikely to return in the foreseeable future.
Alternate Platforms and Availability
Re-release on Red Candle’s Store
In 2021, Red Candle Games launched their own digital storefront to make Devotion and their other titles available again. This move allowed them to retain full control over distribution and avoid reliance on larger, more regulated platforms like Steam or GOG. On their website, both Devotion and Detention are available as DRM-free downloads, allowing gamers to support the developers directly.
Why Not Steam or GOG?
While many hoped for a re-release on GOG, a popular DRM-free platform, those hopes were dashed when GOG announced they would not list Devotion due to ‘many messages from gamers.’ This statement was widely criticized as politically motivated, and it only deepened the controversy. Red Candle’s decision to go fully independent came as a response to these repeated rejections and restrictions.
How to Play Devotion Now
For those who still want to experience Devotion, purchasing it through Red Candle’s official store remains the only legitimate method. The download is available in multiple languages, including English, and the game has been updated and refined since its initial launch. While it may not be on Steam, it is still accessible to those who seek it out.
The Impact of Devotion’s Absence on Steam
Community Reactions
The gaming community has largely rallied in support of Red Candle Games. Many have expressed disappointment over the politicization of game distribution and the role of censorship in limiting artistic expression. Discussions about Devotion’s removal often appear in gaming forums and news topics, highlighting it as a case study in how global politics can influence digital marketplaces.
Preservation of Independent Games
The incident has also sparked conversations about the need for independent game preservation. When games are removed from major platforms like Steam, access becomes limited. Red Candle’s choice to create their own platform reflects a growing movement among indie developers to take control of their own distribution channels and reduce dependency on gatekeeping platforms.
SEO-Friendly Keywords and Common Questions
Is Devotion on Steam in 2025?
As of now, Devotion is still not available on Steam. The developers have made no indication that they plan to re-release it on that platform. Instead, they continue to promote sales through their own website.
Can You Still Buy Devotion?
Yes, the game is still purchasable through Red Candle Games’ official store. It is no longer lost or inaccessible, but it is no longer part of the Steam ecosystem, making it less visible to casual players who rely solely on large platforms.
Will Devotion Ever Return to Steam?
There is no official plan or statement suggesting that Devotion will return to Steam. Given the nature of its removal and the political implications, it is unlikely unless major platform policies change or Red Candle negotiates new terms.
Legacy and Influence of Devotion
An Important Horror Title
Despite the challenges it has faced, Devotion remains an important work in the horror genre. Its ability to combine personal storytelling with cultural depth makes it stand out. It’s not just a game it’s an emotional and psychological journey into guilt, obsession, and love gone wrong.
Inspiring Other Developers
Devotion has inspired indie developers around the world to take more risks and prioritize authenticity over mass appeal. Its success, despite its setbacks, shows that there is an audience for unique, story-driven horror games that challenge both the mind and the heart.
So, is Devotion on Steam? No, and it hasn’t been for years. But its absence from that particular storefront does not diminish its importance or availability. Through its haunting narrative, cultural richness, and tragic behind-the-scenes story, Devotion continues to capture the attention of gamers and critics alike. It serves as a reminder that games are not just entertainment they are reflections of our world, shaped by art, politics, and the voices that dare to speak. For those interested in a deeply moving horror experience, Devotion is absolutely worth seeking out, even if it requires looking beyond Steam.