Steam, Valve`s popular PC gaming platform, is likely to see a reduction in adult-oriented content following a recent major update to its content guidelines.
A subtle revision to Steam`s terms now prohibits the publication of content that could breach the rules and standards of its payment processors, card networks, banks, or internet service providers, specifically mentioning “certain kinds of adult-only content.”
This policy change grants an unprecedented level of influence to financial institutions over Steam`s content. It appears to be an effort by Valve to satisfy its payment partners. This approach, while novel for the gaming industry, has previously been employed to target adult content platforms like OnlyFans.
The updated guidelines have already resulted in the removal of several titles from the Steam store. Valve confirmed to GamingOnLinux that it had been informed of specific games infringing the new payment processor standards. Valve stated that these games are being pulled “because loss of payment methods would prevent customers from being able to purchase other titles and game content on Steam.” Developers of affected games are being directly informed and offered app credits for future distribution.
This policy adjustment aligns with a broader trend among digital storefronts, including Nintendo eShop, to curb the proliferation of what`s been termed “slop” content. Many of these recent titles, often appearing in large volumes, exhibit clear infringements on popular game aesthetics and names, coupled with adult content. It`s widely speculated that these games are rapidly produced by developers leveraging generative AI and large language models to mimic existing titles.
However, the ambiguous phrasing in the updated guidelines presents significant interpretational challenges. For instance, the specific “kinds of adult-only content” that are now prohibited remain undefined. Furthermore, while the guidelines emphasize adherence to new rules enforced by payment processors, the precise nature of these new standards is not explicitly stated.
While much of the “slop” content is sexually explicit, numerous developers also create legitimate adult-only games addressing similar themes. Consequently, many developers now face the risk of penalties or removal from one of the world`s largest digital gaming platforms due to these new changes.