Dying Light: The Beast Announces Censoring for Japanese Version under CERO Z Rules

Adjustments Made to Comply with CERO Z Rating

Introduction
Dying Light: The Beast, the open‑world action game from Techland, will undergo content censorship in its Japanese version in order to align with the criteria set by CERO (Computer Entertainment Rating Organization). The game has been assigned a CERO Z rating — the highest rating in Japan, reserved for those aged 18 and over. Some scenes involving violence and nudity will be reduced or entirely removed so the game can pass these rating standards smoothly.

What Changes Are Being Made

According to Japanese gaming sites, the key content modifications include:

• All zombie nudity scenes will be removed.
• The dismemberment system is disabled: limbs (arms, legs) or heads cannot be severed or exploded off.
• No depiction of internal organs or damaged/destroyed organs will appear in zombie models or in the environment.

These reductions in graphic content are intended to avoid violations of CERO Z’s strict rules, while still letting players experience the core action, parkour, zombie combat, and open world that Dying Light is known for.

Despite these changes, Techland assures that the Japanese version will be fully compatible in co‑op play with international versions that have the original content. Players from outside Japan and in SEA will still be able to play together seamlessly.

Comparison to Other Games & Precedents

This isn’t the first time a game has been altered for the Japanese market. Earlier, Assassin’s Creed Shadows had enemy dismemberment removed in its Japanese release to comply with CERO’s policies. Such modifications are common when games include graphic violence or nudity that exceeds the regulatory threshold in Japan.

What Remains Intact & Player Feedback

Early previews from overseas media suggest Dying Light: The Beast still retains its signature feel — running across rooftops, climbing, fighting zombies in fluid combat — despite the toned‑down gore. While the world may feel less shocking in its Japanese version compared to uncensored releases, the gameplay loop is said to remain solid. Some fans may feel this version is not “as raw,” but many agree it still offers one of the more complete, polished entries in the franchise.

Implications for Players in Southeast Asia (SEA)

For fans in SEA, this matters because:

• Multiplayer / co‑op compatibility means Japanese players and SEA players can play together, even if their versions differ slightly in censoring.
• There may be expectations around content integrity: some SEA players may prefer uncensored versions; knowing these differences ahead of release helps with buying decisions.
• Regulatory practices similar to Japan could influence content in some SEA markets, especially where rating boards have strict rules about violence, gore, and nudity.

Final Thought

The censorship of Dying Light: The Beast for CERO Z in Japan shows the balancing act between creative vision, regulatory compliance, and international player expectations. While some graphic elements are removed, the game promises to deliver its core zombie‑survival experience. For players in SEA, this reveals how global releases can be adjusted without losing multiplayer cohesion. Whether you prefer unfiltered horror or polished restraint, this version of Dying Light will ask you to weigh intensity versus accessibility — and still offer something compelling either way.