Earlier this month, Steam users found that Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls, a new fighting game from Arc System Works and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, had been blocked from purchase in over 132 countries, including the Philippines, Dominican Republic, and Pakistan. The game has since received an update, with several nations (such as those listed) no longer on the restricted list (source: SteamDB).
Although no official explanation has been given for the ban, many speculate it was tied to Sony’s PlayStation Network (PSN) not being accessible in certain regions, similar to what happened with the Steam version of Helldivers 2 in 2024. Back then, the game was briefly removed from stores a few months after launch. Arrowhead Studios explained that Sony’s plan to require PSN accounts in all regions prevented Helldivers 2 from being sold where PSN wasn’t supported. Fortunately, Sony reversed its stance, allowing more players to enjoy the game.
Marvel Tokon is a fighting game featuring some of Marvel’s biggest franchises and characters, so many fans were excited for its release only to find it unavailable in their country. Additionally, the game is set to appear in multiple fighting game tournaments, including EVO Morocco, where it was previously inaccessible.
After receiving feedback and petitions from fans (including prominent fighting game competitors), Marvel Tokon is now available in many of the previously restricted countries. However, the list of nations still without access remains lengthy, including Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Venezuela, though this could change before the game’s launch.
Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls is scheduled to launch on August 6 for Windows (Steam and Epic Games Store) and PlayStation 5. A public beta is planned for July 24-26 PT.
Related: Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls’ anime look wasn’t pushed by Arc System Works, but Marvel Games