Google removes controversial 'Slavery Simulator' game after it was downloaded 1,000 times

UPDATE 07/06/23 - A previous version of this article incorrectly stated Simulador de Escravidão was developed by Malaysian-based company Magnus Games

Google has taken down a highly controversial slavery simulator game from its app store after causing mass outrage in Brazil.

The game which was designed to act as a simulator included worrying features like allowing players to 'buy and sell' Black characters in the game to grow their monetary value.

The game, called 'Simulador de Escravidão' which means 'Slavery Simulator' in Portuguese, was created by games developer MagnusGames and made available on the app store on April 20.

Surprisingly, the controversial app was downloaded by curious players over 1,000 times before Google removed it from the app store on Wednesday.

Google

However, the game will remain on the phones of people who have already download it, with concerns being raised that it could negatively influence people's behaviour in the real world.

It's not yet been confirmed whether the game is available in other countries or was designed solely for a Brazilian audience.

The description of the game said players can 'exchange, buy and sell slaves' and torture them or choose to liberate them by either choosing the 'Path of the Tyrant' or 'Path of the Liberator'.

At the time of its removal, the game was rated four stars out of five by those that had played it, with one even worryingly commenting: "Great game to pass the time. But I think it lacked more torture options."

Google has since spoken out about the issue, saying in a statement to CNN Brazil: "We have a robust set of policies that are designed to keep users safe and that all developers must follow.

Slavery Simulator

"We don’t allow apps that promote violence or incite hatred against individuals or groups based on race or ethnic origin, or that depict or promote gratuitous violence or other dangerous activities

"Anyone who believes they have found an app that violates our rules can file a report. When we identify a policy violation, we take appropriate action."

Those hearing of the horrifying app have taken to social media to express their concerns and outrage.

One person on Twitter wrote: "Why did it require 'wide spread criticism'. Surely even a single complaint should have been enough."

Another added: 'Do the people who approve Google’s products live in caves? Who thought this 'game' up? Have they reached puberty? I cannot believe in 2023 this game made it all the way to the App Store."

Brazil’s Public Prosecutor’s Office has opened an investigation into why the game was made available in the first place