The Shift in Online Gaming Platforms
In recent developments, the indie video game marketplace Itch.io has taken a significant step by deindexing adult and not-safe-for-work (NSFW) games from its browse and search pages. This decision came as a response to a campaign led by Collective Shout, an advocacy group that has previously criticized various forms of media, including video games, rap music, and lingerie commercials.
The group targeted Itch.io and Steam for hosting a game titled “No Mercy,” which depicts rape and incest. In an open letter addressed to executives at major payment processors like PayPal, Mastercard, and Visa, Collective Shout argued that such games promote men’s sexualized abuse and torture of women and girls, contradicting efforts to combat violence against women. The organization emphasized that facilitating payments for these games conflicts with corporate values and mission statements.
This campaign seems to have had an impact on other platforms as well. Earlier this month, Steam announced it would ban games that may violate the rules set by its payment processors and related card networks. Similarly, Itch.io stated that it must prioritize its relationships with payment partners and take immediate steps toward compliance. The company mentioned that “No Mercy” was temporarily available on Itch.io before being banned in April, and the situation escalated quickly, forcing the company to act urgently to protect its core payment infrastructure.
Itch.io is now conducting a comprehensive audit to ensure that all games on the platform meet the requirements of its payment processors. Adult content remains deindexed until the audit is complete. Once the audit is finished, NSFW game creators will need to confirm that their content aligns with the policies of their linked payment processors.
On social media, some users have criticized Itch.io’s decision, pointing out that its current terms state that adult content violations are permanent with no chance of appeal. Additionally, any funds in an offending account will not be eligible for payout. One developer described the policy as taking all money from every creation, not just the one that violated the rules.
This is not the first instance where payment companies have influenced online platforms regarding adult content. For example, Gumroad implemented stricter rules around NSFW art last year, citing restrictions from payment processors. OnlyFans also blamed banking partners and payment providers when it banned explicit content, although it later reversed the decision.
A Change.org petition with over 137,000 verified signatures criticizes Mastercard and Visa for their role in these decisions. The petition demands that payment companies stop censoring legal fictional content that complies with the law and platform standards. It also calls for rejecting influence from activist groups that promote moral panic or misrepresent fiction as harm.
Implications for Content Creators
The actions taken by Itch.io and other platforms highlight the growing tension between content creators and payment processors. As platforms navigate the complex landscape of content regulation, they must balance the need for compliance with the rights of creators. This situation raises important questions about the role of payment companies in shaping the digital content ecosystem.
Creators are increasingly aware of the potential consequences of violating platform policies. The risk of losing all earnings, not just from a single work, adds a layer of uncertainty for those producing NSFW content. This can lead to self-censorship, where creators avoid certain topics to maintain access to payment systems.
Moreover, the influence of advocacy groups like Collective Shout underscores the broader societal debates around content regulation. While these groups aim to address issues of violence and exploitation, their methods can sometimes lead to unintended consequences for content creators. The challenge lies in finding a middle ground that protects vulnerable individuals while respecting the creative freedom of artists.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the relationship between platforms, payment processors, and content creators will remain a critical area of focus. The ongoing dialogue around these issues will shape the future of online content and the policies that govern it.