Steam has long been considered one of the more lenient game platforms regarding content regulation. Provided that developers included appropriate age ratings and tags, Valve typically did not block the release of most adult-themed games. However, a recent update to their distribution rules and guidelines suggests that the platform may now restrict 'certain adult content' that conflicts with the standards of payment processors.

Valve recently announced these changes via an update to the documentation within Steamworks, their developer-facing toolset. Specifically, a new item has been added to the list of 'prohibited content,' which already includes hate speech, improperly rated adult material, and defamation.

The newly added prohibited item states: 'Content that may violate the rules or standards set by Steam's payment processors, associated card networks, banks, or internet service providers, particularly regarding certain types of adult-only content.' While Valve has not specified exactly which companies or standards are included, the move has sparked concern, as it establishes a foundation for Steam to potentially impose direct regulations on specific adult content.

This move is likely related to the case in April, when the adult game 'No Mercy' was removed from sale following demands from UK politicians due to allegations of 'promoting sexual violence.' This suggests that games containing controversial themes, such as incest or non-consensual acts, could become subject to regulation on Steam in the future.

With this guideline update, titles that were previously permitted could be deemed in violation, potentially leading to game removal or regional access restrictions. Furthermore, a debate is emerging over whether it is appropriate for payment processors to influence the freedom of expression within the content industry.

In recent years, some platforms hosting adult content have faced issues with payment services like VISA. In Japan, services such as 'DLsite', 'FANZA Doujin', and 'Manga Library Z' have faced payment bans, while in the US, a 2022 lawsuit regarding the illegal uploading of underage adult content led credit card companies to tighten their regulations on adult media. Although VISA headquarters has stated that they do not make moral judgments on content, some in the industry argue that specific payment processors are driving these regulations.

Industry attention is now focused on whether Steam will apply stricter standards to adult content. Valve has not yet issued an official statement regarding this matter.