Itch.io Joins Steam: The Impact of Adult Game Removals on Indie Gaming

Itch.io, a popular platform for indie games, has made a surprising decision. They have removed adult content from their search and browse options. Leaf Corcoran, the creator of Itch.io, explained this change in a recent blog post. The platform is facing pressure from payment processors concerned about certain types of content, similar to challenges other platforms like Steam have encountered.

Corcoran emphasized the importance of maintaining strong relationships with payment partners. “Our ability to process payments is critical for every creator on our platform,” he stated. This means Itch.io needs to prioritize compliance with payment guidelines to keep functioning smoothly.

Adult games often perform well on Itch.io, which makes this decision particularly impactful. Creators were caught off guard; there was no prior notice about these changes. Corcoran expressed regret over the abruptness, saying, “We know this is not ideal, and we apologize for the abruptness of this change.” Many users wonder if they can still access previously purchased games and visual novels.

As of now, Itch.io hasn’t provided clear guidelines on what content will be allowed moving forward. Creators will need to ensure their adult content aligns with the rules set by payment processors. This could leave many in a difficult position, deciding whether to stay on the platform or look for alternatives.

Corcoran mentioned that they are reviewing content to satisfy the demands of payment processors. “Pages will remain deindexed as we complete our review. Once this review is complete, we will introduce new compliance measures,” he added.

Changes like these are not new in the digital space. For instance, Tumblr faced significant backlash when it banned adult content in 2018. Many creators felt forced to leave, seeking better platforms to showcase their work.

This latest shift by Itch.io may lead to similar reactions. Users are already discussing potential alternatives on social media. Creators fear losing their audience or income stream. The landscape of online gaming continues to evolve, and creators must navigate these challenges smartly.

Ultimately, as platforms tighten content regulations, finding a balance between community standards and creator freedom remains a pressing issue. For now, the future of adult content on Itch.io hangs in the balance, and many will be watching closely.

For more on payment processor policies, you can visit the official guidelines here.

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