When you distribute an app on the Ovi store you must select the distribution countries, so an app publisher can choose which countries have the app available on the store. I think Ovi QC can determine whether a certain app is not suitable for a particular country.
This could be related to the problem, but I don't see what problems Gears could have...
For the record, I can see all the apps mentioned except Samurai on my N950 in the UK...