Dragon Quest VII to be censored for U.S. release?

[10.19.00] » A U.S. release is confirmed, but "strong religious content" rears its controversial head again.

    Enix today formally announced plans to bring the best-selling Dragon Quest VII to American audiences, ending a conspicuous silence regarding the game's U.S. fate. Unfortunately, while no other details were announced, Famitsu.com is reporting that the game will be "altered" due to strong religious content. This is especially disappointing news in light of the praise showered on the game's story by Japanese reviews.

    While religion is an issue that has affected translations since the days of the original Castlevania, games such as Breath of Fire 2 and Final Fantasy Tactics featured churches as villians, making the issue seemingly moot. Especially noteworthy was Square's localization of the religion-drenched Xenogears - despite widespread rumors that the game would be censored or not translated at all, the game arrived surprisingly intact in November of 1998. Series fans can only hope that Dragon Warrior VII does so as well.