Financial censorship threatens adult games on Steam and Itch.io

The International Game Developers Association (IGDA) has issued a strong statement regarding the recent removal of games with adult themes from platforms such as Steam and Itch.io. The organization, which advocates for developers, expressed alarm at the wave of removals and payment interruptions that, according to reports, disproportionately affected creators, often without prior communication.

The IGDA states that the crackdown was motivated by pressure from payment processors such as Visa and Mastercard, giving financial institutions undue influence over what can be created and sold. This "financial censorship," as the IGDA calls it, has forced developers of queer, kink-positive, or romantic narratives to self-censor, as platforms fear the risks associated with hosting legal adult content.

The IGDA's criticism is not against the rules themselves, but against their "vague" enforcement. The organization points out that many games were removed despite being approved and having been on the platforms for a long time. The lack of transparency and a clear appeals process for developers is the main point of concern.

To address the issue, the IGDA proposes that platforms and payment processors create clear guidelines, ensure transparent communication about actions taken, and establish advisory panels with experts. The organization also suggests that platforms seek alternatives to financial partners who are "excessively risk-averse" and urges the community to contact Visa and Mastercard to express their concerns.