Developer TVGS has provided an update regarding the classification rating of its hit game, Schedule 1, in Australia. The team is optimistic that the game will be relisted by the end of July, following its sudden disappearance from the Steam storefront in the country. Earlier this month, Schedule 1 surged in popularity, becoming one of the most-played games on Steam, leaving fans eager to join in on the excitement but disappointed by its withdrawal. The game launched in early access in March, achieving a remarkable peak of nearly 460,000 concurrent players, solidifying its status as one of the standout indie games of the year.
However, the abrupt removal from Steam on May 12 sparked confusion and speculation among fans. Many assumed it had been banned due to its mature themes. TVGS clarified that the game was not banned, but rather awaiting an official age classification from the Australian Classification Board. As it has now been over a month since Schedule 1 was removed, fans are anxious for its return.
Tyler, the game’s sole developer, confirmed during a recent livestream that the classification process is still ongoing. He expressed confidence that Schedule 1 would ultimately receive an 18+ rating and reappear on Steam once the application is submitted and processed, which may take up to 25 working days. In addition to these classification troubles, TVGS has faced potential copyright claims from the publisher of Drug Deal Simulator, Movie Games S.A., alleging that Schedule 1 borrowed elements from their game. Although fans rallied against the accusations, it hasn’t deterred Tyler from consistently enhancing Schedule 1 with bug fixes and new features.
Recently, players voted on the next major update, with the Rival Cartel update emerging as the winner and slated for release by late July.