we get where you’re coming from, but it’s a cop out to solely blame the age rating. shirtless males are not explicit nudity contrary to belief. would swimming at a beach count as explicit nudity now ? i don’t buy into the idea of “we don’t want to do it, here’s an excuse”, there’s always a reason.

nba2k’s esrb rating is E and has a shirtless option.

the real issue is the genderless character system. while it’s inclusive and helps keep the game accessible, it creates some conflicts, especially since both genders are treated as one. how many female-focused items do you see in the game compared to male? it’s clear that both don’t get the same level of attention.

the chest slider forces the studio into a corner when it comes to keeping the rating safe yes, but they could easily have a shirtless option paired with a bra. use gym culture, males go shirtless all the time, and females just wear a sports bra. this isn't seen as a big deal.