Steam has implemented a new policy to ban games that violate the payment rules of banks and card networks, with a particular focus on adult content featuring extreme or controversial themes. According to reports from Engadget, the clause explicitly states that any content violating the rules and standards set by Steam’s payment processors, banks, and internet network providers may be removed from the platform. This means that if credit card companies object to certain content, they could have the authority to ban a game.
The impact of this policy has already been noticeable, with multiple games being taken down from the platform. While SteamDB does not provide specific reasons for these removals, the timing coincides with recent events, suggesting a direct connection to the new restrictions. The policy’s enforcement raises questions about the role of financial institutions in regulating digital content and the potential impact on game developers and creators. As the situation develops, it will be important to monitor how these changes affect the gaming industry and the broader implications for content moderation and censorship in online platforms.