Key Takeaways
1. Steam and Itch.io removed thousands of games with adult themes to comply with payment processor guidelines.
2. Mastercard clarified that it did not mandate game restrictions but emphasized the need to prevent unlawful purchases.
3. Gamers reacted negatively to the bans, leading to significant backlash and a petition on Change.org.
4. Collective Shout, an advocacy group, lobbied payment processors to pressure vendors against adult content, causing further controversy.
5. Itch.io is exploring alternative payment processors while reinstating free adult-oriented games, distancing itself from Mastercard’s policies.
Recently, the large-scale removal of Steam games that feature adult themes has caused a stir in the gaming industry. Itch.io soon followed suit, taking down more than 20,000 independent titles that contained NSFW material. Both companies mentioned that they were adhering to the guidelines set by payment processors such as Visa, Mastercard, and Stripe. In response to backlash, including a petition on Change.org, Mastercard released a statement to clarify its involvement in the bans.
Mastercard’s Position
The credit card company asserts that it did not “evaluate any game or mandate restrictions on activities on game creator sites and platforms.” However, Mastercard reiterates that it is essential for merchants to prevent “unlawful purchases, including illegal adult content.” This particular aspect of the statement has incited significant outrage among gamers. While it’s true that some Steam games may have encouraged illegal activities, other games appear to be targeted merely because they contain adult themes.
Gamers’ Reactions
After receiving numerous angry calls and emails from gamers, Mastercard likely felt it needed to address the situation. The company maintains that it doesn’t play a direct role in determining which games marketplaces are allowed to sell. Nonetheless, the advocacy group Collective Shout asserts that it lobbied payment processors to exert pressure on these vendors. This Australian organization stands against the objectification of women and the sexualization of girls. Despite this, critics argue that the group campaigns against all mature content based on moral or political reasons.
Itch.io’s Approach
Regarding Itch.io, Mastercard can more easily distance itself from the ongoing debate. The gaming platform primarily uses Stripe and PayPal for transactions rather than Mastercard or Visa. Stripe is more transparent about its policy of not permitting retailers to sell any mature-themed games, videos, or art. Itch.io is currently seeking out alternative payment processors while reinstating free adult-oriented games.
On Reddit and various forums, the feedback to Mastercard’s explanation has been far from supportive. Major credit card companies will likely continue to face backlash from consumers who feel that games are being unfairly censored.
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