High-Waisted Bikinis, Sony’s Censorship, and the Politics of Fashion

R.A. Sterling
2 min readApr 30, 2024

In the world of fashion, trends come and go, but some make a lasting impact. One such trend is the resurgence of high-waisted bikinis and swimsuits. This style, reminiscent of the 1950s, has made a comeback and is currently very much in vogue. However, the popularity of this trend has sparked a debate in an unexpected arena — the gaming industry.

The Trend: High-Waisted Bikinis and Swimsuits

High-waisted bikinis and swimsuits have become a staple in beachwear fashion. They are praised for their flattering fit and retro appeal. This style has been embraced by women of all shapes and sizes, proving that fashion trends are not just about aesthetics but also about inclusivity and body positivity.

The Controversy: Sony’s Censorship on Stellar Blade

The controversy began when Sony allegedly censored the outfits of Eve, the main protagonist in the game Stellar Blade, developed by Shift Up. The changes included adding a layer of lace to a bunny swimsuit to cover up some of Eve’s cleavage and changing the cut of the fabric to cover up more of her hips. These changes were interpreted by some as a form of censorship.

The Debate: Marketing Move or Political Decision?

Some argue that Sony’s decision to alter Eve’s outfits was a marketing move, aimed at distancing the game from current fashion trends, such as the popularity of high-waisted bikinis and swimsuits. However, others contend that this was not a marketing move, but a political one.

Those who view Sony’s decision as political argue that the company is imposing its own values and standards on the game and its audience. They claim that by altering Eve’s outfits, Sony is sending a message about what is considered acceptable for women to wear.

The Implications: Freedom of Expression and Creativity

The debate over Sony’s alleged censorship raises important questions about freedom of expression and creativity in the gaming industry. Critics argue that game developers should have the freedom to design their characters as they see fit, without interference from external entities.

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The controversy surrounding Sony’s alleged censorship on Stellar Blade highlights the intersection of fashion, politics, and gaming. It serves as a reminder that even in the world of virtual characters and fantasy settings, real-world issues and debates can still find their way in.

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R.A. Sterling

My name is Rhodes Ansel Sterling, author name R.A. Sterling. Themes: space colonization, the environment, and women’s rights. amazon.com/author/rasterling