Game pulled due to lack of classification
Breakout open-world title Schedule 1 has disappeared from Steam in Australia. Fans feared a ban, but the developer clarified the situation. TVGS studio head Tyler confirmed the game has not been banned. He said, “To anyone in Australia, you might’ve noticed Schedule 1 is hidden on Steam. Don’t worry, the game hasn’t been banned.”
Tyler explained the issue stemmed from classification rules. “All games sold in Australia need to receive a classification/age rating,” he said. He admitted he believed the rule applied only to physical or console games. The developer is now working with the Australian Classification Board to resolve the issue.
Figure 1: Schedule 1 has disappeared from steam in Australia
Developer promises quick resolution
Tyler addressed the missing listing directly via Twitter. He said, “I’m contacting the ratings agency today and getting this resolved ASAP.” The sudden removal sparked concern due to Australia’s history of banning games with drug references. The list includes titles like Disco Elysium, which faced an initial ban before gaining an R18+ rating on appeal.
Despite the absence from Steam, Schedule 1 remains playable for existing users. It continues to receive updates and support. The developer has not made changes to the game in response to the store delisting.
Major hit among players
Schedule 1 launched in March and quickly became a top-selling open-world game on Steam. It challenges players to build a drug empire by crafting potent narcotics, managing distribution, and eliminating rivals. The game peaked at 459,000 concurrent players. Steam reviews exceed 174,000 with a 98% positive rating.
Fans describe the experience as Grand Theft Auto-inspired. Many compare its crime-driven gameplay to classic open-world hits. Its popularity led to fake PS5 listings and backlash toward Drug Dealer Simulator, which drew comparisons to Schedule 1.
Australia’s history with classification issues
Australia’s classification board has blocked several major titles over content concerns. Fallout 3, San Andreas, DayZ, and Saints Row all faced bans. Most games eventually returned with age ratings or edited content. Developers often must adjust games to meet local standards. Schedule 1 has not yet received a classification and cannot be sold until it does.
Disco Elysium initially failed to pass classification due to its portrayal of drug use. After appeal, the game received an R18+ rating and returned to digital storefronts. Similar outcomes occurred with titles like Hotline Miami and Left 4 Dead.
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Schedule 1 not alone in Steam removals
Many games have disappeared from Steam in Australia without prior notice. The absence usually relates to rating issues. Tyler’s quick communication with fans helped prevent misinformation. He continues to update players about the status of Schedule 1 in Australia.
The developer uses the mononym Tyler and operates independently. His team under the label TVGS remains active on social media and continues work on Schedule 1. There are no indications of content changes to meet rating standards.
Fans await classification outcome
Players in Australia must wait for an official classification. The game cannot return to the store without approval from the Australian Classification Board. Developers must submit documentation and possibly modify game content. Tyler has not stated whether content changes are under consideration.
Until the game receives its rating, new Australian users cannot purchase or download Schedule 1. Those who already own the title retain access. Updates and support remain available through Steam.
Schedule 1 remains available in other regions and continues to perform strongly. The situation in Australia draws attention to the challenges indie developers face with classification laws. Tyler’s transparency has reassured fans awaiting the game’s return to Steam.
