BrownDust2 Removed from Google Play Store in Vietnam Due to New Online Game Regulations
NEOWIZ, the South Korean developer behind the popular gacha RPG BrownDust2, officially announced unexpected news for players in Vietnam. The game has been removed from the Google Play Store in Vietnam, making it impossible for new players in the country to search for or download the game through the platform.
According to NEOWIZ, the removal is a direct result of Decree No. 147/2024/NĐ-CP, a newly enforced regulation in Vietnam governing the management and provision of online information services and internet games.
New Legal Requirements for Foreign Game Publishers
Under the new decree, foreign game publishers wishing to operate in Vietnam must meet strict conditions. These include establishing a joint venture with a local partner or officially registering a legal entity within Vietnam. In addition, publishers are required to obtain operating licenses and submit their game content for approval by government authorities.
The regulation aims to strengthen content control, improve tax collection, and ensure cybersecurity compliance in line with government standards. As a result, many overseas developers now face higher barriers to entry in the Vietnamese market.
Impact on Existing Players
NEOWIZ confirmed that existing players who already have BrownDust2 installed can continue playing normally. However, several key issues remain unresolved. Players are currently unable to update the game through the Google Play Store, and in game purchases are affected due to complications with local payment service providers.
The development team stated that it is carefully reviewing the legal requirements and exploring possible solutions to restore full service in Vietnam, though no clear timeline has been announced.
Ongoing Controversies and Platform Challenges
This situation follows closely after another major controversy earlier in January 2026, when BrownDust2 faced global backlash over proposed character design changes prompted by external warnings regarding suggestive content. The developers ultimately reversed the planned censorship within two days, reaffirming their creative stance despite acknowledging that the decision could complicate negotiations with certain countries.
BrownDust2 has also encountered difficulties on PC platforms. In December 2025, the game’s launch on Steam was suspended after failing to reach an agreement on content adjustments required under the platform’s updated policies. As a result, NEOWIZ has shifted its focus toward alternative platforms such as Google Play Games for PC, allowing players to experience the game without compromising its artistic direction.
A Critical Test for NEOWIZ
The situation in Vietnam represents a significant test for NEOWIZ as it seeks to balance local regulatory compliance with the expectations of its global fanbase, many of whom value the game’s bold character designs. The publisher has stated that if maintaining the current version proves impossible under local laws, it may consider region specific access restrictions or a separate localized version, rather than altering the global release.
How NEOWIZ navigates this challenge could set an important precedent for other publishers operating across the SEA region.
