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Game removal controversy involves Collective Shout
Collective Shout claims responsibility for Itch.io and Steam's removal of NSFW games.
Australian pressure group Collective Shout has influenced major platform policies.
Collective Shout's role in Steam and Itch.io game removals raises concerns
The Australian advocacy group Collective Shout has announced its involvement in the recent removal of NSFW content from popular gaming platforms Itch.io and Steam. The organization claims it pushed for stricter content policies due to concerns about games featuring sexual violence and abuse, specifically targeting problematic titles. This push was in response to what they described as the platforms' inaction, prompting Collective Shout to engage with payment processors like Visa and PayPal. As a result, Itch.io removed all NSFW content from its site, and Steam has implemented unclear new guidelines concerning adult material. The backlash from parts of the gaming community includes efforts to counteract these changes, highlighting a significant tension between consumer rights and community values.
Key Takeaways
"We approached payment processors because Steam did not respond to us."
Collective Shout articulates the frustration that led them to reach out to payment processors for change.
"Visa has no right to dictate my or other consumers' behavior."
A consumer expresses concern over Visa's influence on game content through lobbying efforts.
"This rush to appease payment processors has met with pushback."
Analysis of the community's response to Collective Shout's campaign and platform changes.
"The removal means well-intentioned games could also face deletion."
Explaining the unintended consequences of sweeping content removals affecting various games.
The actions of Collective Shout underscore a growing concern over the influence of payment processors on content availability in the gaming industry. This situation raises fundamental questions about censorship and the role of external agencies in regulating legal content. While the removal of overtly harmful games may be welcomed, the broader implications could stifle diverse and creative game development, especially for games that challenge prevailing social norms. The community's response illustrates a deep divide over what constitutes acceptable content in digital platforms.
Highlights
- Collective Shout is challenging what we consider acceptable in gaming.
- Payment processors are becoming gatekeepers of online content.
- Once legal, now deemed problematic by advocacy groups.
- We must protect creative freedom in the gaming industry.
Potential for censorship in gaming
The involvement of payment processors raises concerns about censorship and the implications for lawful content. Advocacy groups may inadvertently affect diverse game development, particularly LGBTQ+ titles.
The ongoing debate may shape future content policies across gaming platforms.
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