Itch.io Removes Adult Games After Steam's Lead
Itch.io Removes Adult Content: A New Standard in Gaming?
The recent decision by iItch.io to remove adult games from its platform aligns closely with actions taken by Steam, sparking discussions in the gaming community regarding the evolving standards of acceptable content. In a blog announcement, Itch.io creator Leaf Corcoran noted that concerns raised by payment processors compelled the platform to prioritize its compliance efforts.
Response to Payment Partners
Corcoran emphasized the critical nature of maintaining a good relationship with payment partners, stating, “Our ability to process payments is critical for every creator on our platform.” The abrupt deindexing of adult titles has caught many creators off guard, raising eyebrows regarding the decision-making process behind such a significant policy shift.
- Adult titles are top-sellers on Itch.io, and many creators were blindsided by this removal.
- Corcoran expressed regret about the abrupt nature of the change, promising updates as the review process unfolds.
Industry-Wide Implications
This development raises questions about the broader implications for content creators and the gaming industry. As platforms navigate the delicate balance of compliance and creator freedom, the echo of past controversies, like Tumblr’s 2018 ban, looms large.
- Itch.io’s actions may drive some users away, mirroring past experiences in internet culture.
- Creators will need to verify that their NSFW games adhere to the new policies soon.
As the gaming industry continues to adapt to tech and cultural demands, Itch.io’s decision is a point of contention particularly for those invested in NSFW content within digital spaces.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.