Google has removed the psychological horror visual novel Doki Doki Literature Club from the Google Play Store, stating that its content violates the platform's Terms of Service due to depictions of sensitive themes. The game, which launched on iOS and Android in December 2025, remains available for free on Apple devices. Developer San Salvato and publisher Serenity Forge said they are working to reinstate it.
Doki Doki Literature Club first appeared as freeware nearly a decade ago and later became a free Steam title. Known for its unsettling psychological horror disguised as a visual novel, the game includes clear warnings that it is not suitable for children or those easily disturbed. These disclosures appear in its descriptions and trailers, such as on the Steam page. It has reached over 30 million players worldwide and is still free on platforms including PC, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation consoles. Google removed the Android version earlier this week, as confirmed by the developers on April 11, 2026. In a joint statement, San Salvato and Serenity Forge wrote: 'Yesterday, Google chose to remove Doki Doki Literature Club from the Google Play Store. Their explanation is that the game’s content violates their Terms of Service in its depiction of sensitive themes.' The team praised the game's role in portraying mental health issues to connect with players globally. Salvato noted gratitude for its impact and commitment to creating meaningful content. The developers are exploring reinstatement on Google Play and alternative Android distribution methods. They thanked Android users for their enthusiasm since the December launch and promised updates.
