Tag: Steam

July 21, 2025
Steam Game Censorship: Journalists Resign After Payment Issues
Key Takeaways
1. Valve removed several Steam games with adult content due to claims from payment processors about rule violations.
2. The Australia-based group Collective Shout is linked to the censorship of games, promoting a mission against the “objectification of women and the sexualisation of girls.”
3. Other organizations, like the National Center on Sexual Exploitation and Exodus Cry, have also influenced the removal of games from Valve’s platform.
4. Vice journalist Ana Valens faced pressure to remove content about Collective Shout and ultimately left the publication, prompting others to resign in solidarity.
5. The situation raises concerns about the influence of payment processors and activist groups on content moderation and the freedom of journalists to discuss censorship.
Recently, Valve took down a number of Steam games that included adult content. This decision was made after payment processors claimed that these games broke their “rules and standards.” However, further investigation by reporters showed that other groups also played a role in these bans. Now, writers for Vice are caught in the middle of this issue, with some even leaving the publication.
The Role of Collective Shout
On July 19th, Ana Valens wrote an article for Vice titled, “Group Behind Steam Censorship Policies Have Powerful Allies — And Targeted Popular Games With Outlandish Claims.” The piece highlighted how the Australia-based group Collective Shout claimed responsibility for the removal of many games from Steam. Their website outlines a mission against what they view as the “objectification of women and the sexualisation of girls.” Valens describes this group as a “radical feminist organization” that promotes the censorship of adult content.
Other Influential Organizations
The Vice piece also brought attention to groups like the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE) and Exodus Cry, which have previously campaigned for the removal of various titles from Valve’s platform. In some instances, such as with Detroit: Become Human, Collective Shout has accused developers of encouraging violence against women and children. Valens suggests that these politically charged claims are usually baseless. Additionally, activists often manage to target games without giving clear reasons.
The Fallout at Vice
Valens shared on social media that the owner of Vice ordered her to remove content related to Collective Shout due to its controversial nature. After she refused, she chose to stop contributing to Waypoint, the gaming section of Vice. Following her departure, several colleagues also resigned in solidarity. It remains uncertain whether the higher-ups at Vice have any connections to Collective Shout or its partners.
Many people criticize the significant influence that payment processors hold over how Valve moderates content on Steam. Others take issue with groups like Collective Shout pressuring banks based on their political views. The turmoil at Vice also brings forth broader discussions about the freedom of journalists to voice their opinions on censorship issues.
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Tags: Collective Shout, Steam
July 20, 2025
Steam Adds New Free Games to Its Collection
Key Takeaways
1. A new list of free games has been released on Steam, appealing to various player types.
2. Many of the new titles don’t yet have user ratings, but some are already receiving positive feedback.
3. The line-up includes games from different genres, attracting a diverse audience.
4. Several games have gained popularity quickly due to early favorable reviews.
5. It’s noteworthy how some titles can become popular shortly after their launch, even without complete ratings.
Yet again, a fresh list of free games has appeared on Steam, and similar to past releases, these new titles are varied in types. Since they came out in early July or late June 2025, several of them don’t yet have user ratings, although some have already been positively rated by gamers. Here’s more information on those that are getting good feedback:
New Titles and Ratings
The line-up includes a variety of genres, making it appealing for different types of players. Even though many of these games are new to the platform, some have already started to gain traction among users. It’s always exciting to see what players think, especially when a game has just been launched.
Player Reception
Several games have stood out thanks to their early favorable reviews. These titles are drawing attention for their gameplay and overall experience. It’s interesting to note how quickly some games can become popular, even without a full player rating yet.
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Tags: Free Games, Player Ratings, Steam
July 18, 2025
Nearly 8,000 Steam Games Feature AI-Generated Content
Key Takeaways
1. Significant increase in AI-generated content in games, from around 1,000 titles last year to nearly 8,000 this year on Steam.
2. Developers can disclose AI usage in games on Steam, but participation in the survey is not mandatory, suggesting actual numbers may be higher.
3. Examples of AI integration include in-game artwork creation, character customization, and dynamic generation of game elements in titles like inZOI and AI Roguelite.
4. Microsoft reports that nearly 30% of its code is AI-generated, indicating a growing reliance on AI in game development.
5. The trend of using generative AI in gaming is expected to continue expanding, highlighting its transformative potential in the industry.
The growing use of generative AI in the gaming industry is becoming more evident. A recent study illustrates this trend by examining data from Steam, which requires developers to indicate if their games include AI-generated content. Since this feature was introduced, there has been a notable increase in such disclosures compared to the previous year. The application of AI ranges from creating in-game artwork to designing entire maps.
Significant Growth in AI Disclosures
According to an analysis released by Totally Human Media on July 13, 2024, approximately 1,000 games were reported to have some form of AI generation last year. In contrast, this number has surged to almost 8,000 titles by July of this year that indicate varying degrees of AI involvement. Steam implemented the option for developers to disclose AI-generated content in January 2024, which likely contributed to the rise in both new games utilizing AI and the disclosures themselves. Nonetheless, it’s challenging to ascertain which of these figures is greater.
Additional Disclosure Possibilities
Moreover, when developers list their games on Steam, they must complete a content survey that includes a section on AI disclosure, although this is not obligatory. This suggests that the actual number of games using AI could be even higher than the reported nearly 8,000 titles.
Examples of AI Integration in Games
The analysis also provided examples of how different games incorporate AI-generated content. For instance, inZOI employs AI models that enable players to “create unique textures for character outfits and various items from text prompts.” Players can also generate 3D objects from images for use as decor or accessories and add unique motions to their character using video input. Small language models govern the actions and thoughts of the in-game characters known as Zois.
Street Flicker utilizes generative AI to craft player characters, while AI Roguelite dynamically generates in-game elements like text, images, and sound effects, as well as making “real-time decisions about game mechanics.” Currently, AI Roguelite boasts an impressive 82% positive review rate.
The Future of AI in Game Development
It appears that the reliance on generative AI in game development is poised to continue its upward trend. Microsoft has acknowledged that nearly 30% of its code is generated by AI, though it remains uncertain how much of this pertains to gaming. The company’s generative AI model, Muse, is specifically tailored to assist creators in game development, whether by generating new content or refreshing existing games.
Totally Human Media highlights the rapid expansion of AI in the gaming world, underscoring its transformative potential.
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Tags: Generative AI, Steam
July 18, 2025
New Free-to-Play MMORPG Soars on Steam with Great Reviews
Key Takeaways
1. Turn-Based Combat System: LostMagic features a unique turn-based combat system, distinguishing it from many real-time MMORPGs, and allows for solo and co-op dungeon adventures.
2. Early Access Impact: The game spent time in early access, receiving player feedback for gameplay improvements, which helped build a strong community before its full release.
3. Cross-Platform Availability: LostMagic is available on Windows and macOS with cross-platform multiplayer, making it accessible to a wider audience.
4. Mixed Reviews: The game holds a “Mostly Positive” rating on Steam, with feedback highlighting technical issues and a steep learning curve, common in small-studio MMORPGs.
5. Growing Player Base: The game is gaining popularity among gamers interested in tactical and cooperative experiences, especially since it is free to play.
LostMagic, created by Nokhook Entertainment, is a free-to-play MMORPG that uses a turn-based system and was fully released on Steam on July 17, 2025. Before this official launch, it spent time in early access starting January 30, 2025, where it underwent many gameplay tweaks and updates based on feedback from players. This early access period helped build a solid player community leading up to the game’s full release.
Unique Combat System
Drawing inspiration from classic 2D role-playing games, LostMagic stands out for its turn-based combat instead of the usual real-time action found in many similar games. Players can engage in solo or co-op dungeon adventures with groups of up to five members. The game features boss battles, arena PvP, and a variety of narrative quests. Additionally, there’s a mode called “Arcana Tower,” where progress resets frequently, promoting strategic gameplay. Players can also join in-game factions, complete quests, and find hidden secrets.
Platform Availability
LostMagic is accessible on Windows and macOS, offering cross-platform multiplayer capabilities. Although the game features in-app purchases, early players have noted that free users can still enjoy basic progress and most of the content. Reviews have pointed out some technical performance issues and a steep learning curve, which is not unusual for a small-studio MMORPG during its launch phase.
Since it transitioned out of early access, LostMagic has gained more reviews and currently holds a “Mostly Positive” rating overall. Recent feedback suggests a generally good reception. Some players have compared it to older turn-based online RPGs, but the game’s ongoing success will hinge on how well the developers provide support and respond to early technical criticisms. As of now, LostMagic is not officially compatible with the Steam Deck (curr. $785 on Amazon), which could be a slight drawback for potential players.
Growing Popularity
As of July 18, 2025, LostMagic seems to be establishing itself among gamers who are interested in tactical, cooperative online experiences that are easier to access compared to many rivals, especially since it’s free.
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Tags: MMORPG, Steam
July 17, 2025
Steam Updates Adult Content Rules Following Payment Processor Pressure
Key Takeaways
1. Steam has updated its content policies, influenced by payment companies like Visa and Mastercard, to restrict certain adult content.
2. A “mini-purge” has occurred, removing controversial games such as “Incest Tales” and “Wolf on Rail” from the platform.
3. The definition of “adult only content” remains unclear, but more explicit and fetish-related themes are likely banned.
4. While some view the changes positively to tackle problematic titles, others criticize the increased control payment processors have over game accessibility.
5. Community reactions are mixed, with some unhappy about the influence of payment providers on Steam’s decisions, advocating for Valve to maintain authority over content.
Steam has made changes to its content policies and started to remove certain controversial games after receiving pressure from payment companies like Visa and Mastercard.
Updated Guidelines
Recently, Steam modified its onboarding section on the documentation homepage to add a new point in the Rules and Guidelines: “Content that may violate the rules and standards set forth by Steam’s payment processors and related card networks and banks, or internet network providers. In particular, certain kinds of adult only content.”
The Mini-Purge
As noted by TheGamer, this update led to a sort of mini-purge, according to the Steam Database, which saw the removal of various problematic titles like “Incest Tales,” “Wolf on Rail,” “Sex Village,” and “Slave of the Police Officer,” among others, from the store.
While the exact definition of “certain types of adult only content” remains vague, it appears that more explicit and fetish-related themes will no longer be permitted on the platform.
Pros and Cons
On one hand, this action can be seen positively, as Steam has had a long-standing issue with adult shovelware that needed addressing. On the flip side, this change grants payment processors increased control over what is allowed on the platform, effectively deciding which games are accessible to players.
Both Visa and Mastercard are no strangers to this kind of action. They have previously taken steps to limit adult content on sites like Pornhub and OnlyFans.
Collective Shout’s Initiative
Earlier this month, Collective Shout, a grassroots movement opposing the objectification of women in media, sent an open letter to payment processors, including PayPal, Visa, and Mastercard, accusing them of profiting from numerous problematic titles on Steam.
They called on payment processors to “show corporate social responsibility and immediately stop processing payments on Steam and Itch.io and any other platforms hosting similar games.”
Community feedback
The response from the community appears to be mixed on the Steam subreddit, with many expressing dissatisfaction that the platform made these changes due to pressure from payment providers rather than making a decision independently.
Others argued that it shouldn’t be the card companies determining how users spend their money, stating that the final authority should lie with Valve.
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Tags: Mastercard, Steam, Visa
July 14, 2025
New Steam Leak Reveals Sleek UI Overhaul and Tile Design
Key Takeaways
1. The Steam Store page is getting a major redesign, featuring a refreshed user interface and improved functionality.
2. Enhanced navigation will allow users quicker access to sections like new releases and free-to-play games.
3. The updated layout will improve visibility of wishlists and highlight when games are on sale, helping users find deals.
4. Currently, Steam users can claim four free games, including Ultimate Zombie Defense and others until mid-July.
5. Valve aims to create a more user-friendly storefront to enhance engagement and retention, following a significant UI update in June 2023.
A major update to the Steam Store page has been revealed, featuring a refreshed user interface and enhanced functionality for the digital marketplace. The information was posted on the Steam subreddit by insiders xPaw and LambdaGeneration, displaying visuals of a more efficient layout.
Enhanced Navigation
The redesign that was leaked indicates that users will have quicker access to various sections of the Steam Store, including new releases, free-to-play games, and other titles. These modifications could simplify the process for users looking to find new and popular games.
Wishlist and Promotions
Another aspect of the new layout is the improved accessibility and visibility of a user’s wishlist, emphasizing when those games are on sale. This aligns with Steam’s ongoing goal of helping users discover the best deals and promotions while browsing their store. Additionally, the new UI offers quick links for purchasing gift cards and accessing the points shop.
This leak comes shortly after the conclusion of Steam’s largest annual event, the Steam Summer Sale, which finished on July 10. During this time, users enjoyed substantial discounts on some of the most sought-after games. Moreover, Steam has consistently provided numerous free games over the years on its platform.
Free Games Available Now
Currently, Steam users can claim four free games. The top-down 4-player co-op game, Ultimate Zombie Defense, which has a user score of 83%, is available for free until July 15. Additionally, players can add Slitherine’s titles: the tactical space strategy game Battlestar Galactica: Deadlock, the turn-based tactics game Field of Glory 2: Medieval, and Fantasy General 2 to their libraries at no cost until July 17.
To enhance user engagement and retention, Valve is focused on creating a more user-friendly storefront, enabling users to track discounts and discover games with ease. The last significant update to the Steam client UI was implemented in June 2023. As this leak spreads online, it remains uncertain when Valve will officially launch this UI update or introduce further enhancements in a final version.
Valve’s online storefront made its debut on September 12, 2003. In 2023, the company reported having 132 million active users. Recent SteamDB statistics show that Steam maintained an impressive 30 million concurrent users in March. As of now, Steam has listed a total of 142,339 games on its platform.
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Tags: Steam, Valve
July 13, 2025
New Free Games on Steam After Summer Sale 2025 Ends
Key Takeaways
1. The Steam Summer Sale 2025 ended on July 10, featuring various impressive discounts.
2. Despite the sale’s conclusion, there are still new free games available on the platform.
3. Recent free titles have received positive feedback from players.
4. Players should actively look for and explore new free games even after the sale.
5. Ongoing free game offerings provide opportunities to find enjoyable titles before the next big sale.
Steam wrapped up its Summer Sale 2025 on July 10. This short-lived event featured a variety of impressive discounts. Even though the exciting game offers have ended until the next sale comes around, there are still fresh free games available on the platform. Here are some of the recently discovered free titles that have received good feedback from players:
New Free Games
The excitement doesn’t have to stop just because the sale is over. Players can still enjoy a selection of new free games on Steam. These titles are getting decent reviews, showing that players are enjoying them. So, while you might have missed out on the sale, there are still opportunities to grab some games without spending a dime.
What to Look For
Make sure to keep an eye out for these free games. Even if the discounts from the Summer Sale are gone, the ongoing offerings are worth checking out. With new games being added, you might find something that really catches your interest. It’s a good time to explore and see what’s available before the next big sale comes around.
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Tags: Free Games, Steam, Summer Sale
July 12, 2025
Shark Dentist: Play as a Dentist with an Angle Grinder in New Game
Key Takeaways
1. Game Concept: Shark Dentist is a unique game where players act as a dentist for sharks in an underwater clinic, combining elements of roguelike and simulation genres.
2. Absurd Trailer: The game’s trailer features a dentist using an angle grinder and showcases humorous and shocking moments, leading to mixed reactions from viewers.
3. Gameplay Mechanics: Players must navigate unpredictable treatment scenarios, with mistakes resulting in quick game overs, adding an element of stress management.
4. Availability: Shark Dentist is currently available on Steam, but there are no plans to release it on PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X/S.
5. Community Reactions: Online discussions reveal a mix of opinions, with some viewing it as entertainingly absurd and others questioning its value.
What would you risk for ideal dental health, even if the patient has three rows of sharp teeth? Some are ready to put it all on the line – at least in the newly launched Shark Dentist. Unveiled on YouTube on July 11 through a delightfully absurd trailer, this game comes from Alice Games and offers precisely what its name suggests: you’re a dentist. For sharks. In a gloomy, underwater clinic.
A Wild Trailer
The one-minute trailer showcases a dentist doing routine work – drilling, grinding, and cutting – inside the jaws of a gigantic predator. However, instead of using regular tools, she brandishes an angle grinder. It’s no surprise that things take a turn for the worse fast, leading to the dentist being decapitated. Whether these moments reflect real gameplay or are just pre-rendered remains unclear. Reactions on Reddit are mixed: some think it’s clickbait, while others find it hilariously entertaining. One user captures the essence perfectly – “So dumb it’s brilliant.”
Unique Gameplay Experience
The genre? A strange combination of roguelike and simulation. Each treatment unfolds in a unique way, with mistakes resulting in a quick and bloody game over. If you lose your cool, you become shark bait. Players can anticipate random tools, unexpected tooth damage, and a bit of stress management – after all, no shark opens its mouth without a fight. While there isn’t a release date yet, Shark Dentist is already available on Steam. Currently, there are no intentions to release it on PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X/S.
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Tags: Steam
July 11, 2025
Free $39 Strategic Space Combat Game with Great Reviews on Steam
Key Takeaways
1. Free Offer: Battlestar Galactica: Deadlock is available for free on Steam until July 17th, normally priced at $39.99.
2. Game Overview: The game is a 3D turn-based strategy set during the first Cylon War, focusing on the defense of the Twelve Colonies.
3. Gameplay Mechanics: Players command the Colonial fleet in tactical 3D battles using a unique turn-based system where commands are executed simultaneously.
4. Positive Reception: The game has an 86% positive rating on Steam and a score of 7.8/10 from IGN, indicating a strong player experience.
5. Limited Time Promotion: The free offer is time-sensitive, encouraging players to take advantage of it quickly before the deadline.
Strategy game fans who love Space-themed games, along with Battlestar Galactica supporters, have an exciting reason to rejoice. The well-known tactical game, Battlestar Galactica: Deadlock, which usually costs $39.99, is now available for free on Steam. However, this offer is only valid until July 17th, so players are encouraged to act fast.
Game Overview
Battlestar Galactica: Deadlock is an engaging 3D turn-based strategy game that was released in 2017. Created by Black Lab Games, the storyline takes place roughly three years into the first Cylon War, as depicted in the reimagined series. Players face off against the Cylon forces, tasked with defending the ‘Twelve Colonies’. The initial campaign kicks off with the Galactica mysteriously disappearing shortly after its deployment, leaving Admiral Lucinda Cain, the highest-ranking officer, in charge of the fleet.
Gameplay Mechanics
The gameplay features a unique turn-based system where each side confirms commands that are executed simultaneously. Players control the Colonial fleet from the Daidalos, directing a diverse array of ships in tactical 3D battles. The game delves into the early phases of humanity’s struggle against their own created robots, offering players a chance to experience a well-known conflict prior to the events of the popular TV show.
With the game currently being offered for free on Steam, now is the perfect time to explore this strategic space combat experience. Given its impressive 86% positive rating on Steam and a score of 7.8/10 from IGN, Battlestar Galactica: Deadlock is likely to provide an enjoyable experience for fans of the franchise and those who appreciate turn-based tactical strategy games.
Important Note
Disclaimer: Notebookcheck does not take responsibility for any price alterations made by retailers. The promotional price or deal mentioned in this article was accurate at the time of writing and may be subject to time limitations or a restricted number of units available.
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Tags: Steam
July 10, 2025
$15 Co-op FPS Launches in Early Access After 120K Steam Demo Players
Key Takeaways
1. Mycopunk will launch in early access on Steam on July 10, with a potential price around $15-$20.
2. The game features both multiplayer and single-player modes, with a focus on balancing based on player feedback during early access.
3. Players will control quirky robotic outcasts working to combat a hazardous fungal infection in a chaotic shooter setting.
4. The game supports four-player co-op and offers significant weapon upgrades, customization options, and diverse builds.
5. Positive feedback was received during the demo phase, and the game is expected to be compatible with devices like the Steam Deck.
When we first talked about Mycopunk, we didn’t know when it would be out. However, the developer has now confirmed that it will launch on July 10. Now that day is here, as Pigeons at Play and Devolver Digital are all set for the chaotic new shooter to enter early access on Steam.
Pricing Insights
The price hasn’t been disclosed yet, but the publisher recently took a jab at Borderlands 4 and its creator, Randy Pitchford, on social media platform X. They hinted that Mycopunk will be priced at or below $20. When Borderlands 4 was rumored to cost $80, the publisher remarked, “You can get Mycopunk for you and three of your pals for the price of a single copy of Borderlands 4.” This was later updated to say you could buy “4.6 copies of it for the price of one Borderlands,” which places the estimated price around $15.
Game Features
Earlier this year, Mycopunk generated excitement with a free demo during Steam Next Fest, attracting over 120,000 players. According to the announcement for early access, this initial version of the game will include a variety of features for both multiplayer and single-player experiences. Pigeons at Play stated, “We believe there’s enough content in Mycopunk for a full 1.0 release,” but they want to use early access to balance the game based on player feedback. They also assured fans that they won’t “ruin your favorite build or weapon interaction,” suggesting there will be numerous “broken” weapons or builds in the game. The development team aims to ensure everything is finely tuned. They plan to use the early access phase and frequent updates leading to the 1.0 launch to create a “constantly evolving” story, with each update supposedly linked to the narrative in some way.
Gameplay Experience
In Mycopunk, players assume the roles of quirky robotic outcasts working under corporate bosses as part of the New Atlas Hazard Crew, tasked with tackling a hazardous fungal infection that threatens the galaxy. This chaotic shooter will take you across New Atlas on special missions aimed at eliminating the ever-changing fungal menace. Players will uncover details about their mysterious enemy, the world at stake, and the corporation sending them into battle. The updates following the early access launch will introduce new weapons and gear, along with upgrades to current equipment, all aimed at combating the fungal threat on New Atlas. The game supports four-player co-op gameplay but can also be played solo for those without friends.
So far, the response to the game’s Next Fest demo has been quite positive, with Reddit users praising its replayability, significant weapon upgrades, and customization options, as well as the diversity of builds. The stylized graphics and quirky NPCs also received a lot of love, enhancing the gritty punk vibe and personality of the game.
Compatibility and Performance
Mycopunk is currently un-rated for the Valve Steam Deck or SteamOS, but the developer confirmed on Reddit that they received plenty of positive feedback from the Steam Deck community during the demo phase, showing no signs of withdrawing support. The game’s replayability and light system demands could make it a good fit for devices like the Lenovo Legion GO S (currently priced at $589.99 on Amazon) running SteamOS.
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Tags: Lenovo Legion Go S, Mycopunk, Steam