Bethesda has announced it will be geo-locking the uncensored PC version of Wolfenstein: The New Order to prevent the uncensored version being sold in Germany and Austria, whilst the game will feature a number of changes for its physical release.

This is due to the ‘International’ (non-German language) containing Nazi-related symbols and content, the distribution of which is forbidden by German law. In Bethesda’s statement it says violating the law can “result in confiscation of the Game, a high financial penalty or up to three years in prison.” The geo-lock is being put in place as the laws cover both physical and digital copies of the game so the uncensored digital version will not be accessable.

To comply with these laws, the German and Austrian version will have the offending material removed or altered, and will be sold by selected retailers.

Wolfenstein: The New Order is set in an alternate universe set in the 60s where the Third Reich won the Second World War and you have to try and overthrow them. The storyline will undoubtedly have to be altered to allow the game to be sold in Germany.

Despite these changes being made, Bethesda assured players there will be no alterations made to the gameplay:

“Please note that the adaptation is in respect of Nazi content only, and although there are some legally required differences, the levels of violence and action remain the same as in the international version.”

Wolfenstein: The New Order will be available on the 20th May on PC, PS4, PS3, Xbox One and Xbox 360. There is still time to pre-order the game and get access to the upcoming Doom Beta for PC and next-gen consoles.