It looks like Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 could be the latest entertainment property to fall foul of Middle Eastern censors, resulting in a potential ban or a delay to the game’s release.
PublisherSonystarted taking pre-ordersfor thePS5game last month, shortly after announcing aMarvel’s Spider-Man 2 release dateof July 03, 2025.
However, users in multiple Middle East countries including Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Kuwait havereportedbeing unable to pre-order the PS5 sequel.
Spider-Man 2‘s age rating has reportedly been removed from localPlayStationwebsite listings for the game, some of which arecurrentlydisplayingits release date as October 20, while also stating “release date to be determined.”
It’s beenclaimedthat the game’s release could be delayed while content is censored to adhere to local customs and values. VGC has contacted Sony to see if it can clarify the game’s release status in the Middle East.
Sony’s animated movieSpider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse was blocked from release in the UAE last month for failing to meet local censorship laws, partly because of a protect trans lives poster which briefly appears in the background of one frame, according toThe Hollywood Reporter.
Fellow PS5 exclusiveFinal Fantasy 16was also recentlybanned in Saudi Arabiaafter publisherSquare Enixreportedly refused to modify the game to meet censorship requirements.
Further reading
DeveloperInsomniac Gamespremiered a newSpider-Man 2 story trailerduring aComic-Con panellast week, showing off Venom in action for the first time.
It also revealed a Spider-Man 2 limited edition PS5 bundle featuring a custom console cover design and matching DualSense wireless controller, which will launch in September ahead of the game.
For more Spider-Man 2 guides, click over to ourSpider-Man 2 suits listandAll Spider-bot locations, or find out how to unlock theClassic Black Suit,Noir Suit, andSpider-Punk suit.
We also have a guide to theJust Let Go Trophyand theSpider-Man 2 Spider-Bot Ending Explained.
