Itch.io Introduces New Guidelines for Adult Content After Payment Processors Apply Pressure

Itch.io has unveiled its updated guidelines for adult content, a move that follows the platform's decision to de-index all NSFW content due to pressure from its payment processors. The indie game platform previously announced that it had removed all NSFW adult content from its search and browse pages, citing scrutiny from its payment processors. The new guidelines, which can be found in the Creator FAQ section, emphasize the importance of complying with the terms set by its payment processors. According to the guidelines, content that includes sexualized images or videos of real humans is not allowed, while fictional, illustrated, and rendered content is generally acceptable, provided it is legal. However, AI-generated imagery designed to resemble photographic content of real people is prohibited. Itch.io also stresses that content glorifying sexual violence is not permitted and that depictions of minors or minor-presenting individuals in a sexual context will result in account suspension. The platform warns that violations of these terms will lead to permanent administrative action, with no option for appeal, and may also render any funds in a developer's account ineligible for payment. The guidelines further outline the terms of its payment processors, including PayPal, Stripe, and Payoneer, and provide a non-exhaustive list of prohibited themes, such as bestiality, incest, and revenge porn. Itch.io notes that it often has to review content on a case-by-case basis, as it is challenging to create an exhaustive list of unacceptable products. The platform also explains that developers who have already collected money for content that violates these terms may face frozen or refunded pending transactions. This development comes after Valve introduced new guidelines on what not to publish on Steam, following similar pressure from payment processors over NSFW content. The pressure is reportedly linked to a campaign by the Australian organization Collective Shout, which published an open letter to the CEOs of major payment processing companies, requesting them to cease processing payments on gaming platforms that host rape, incest, and child sexual abuse-themed games. Following the removal of adult content from Steam and itch.io, Collective Shout released a statement on Facebook, aiming to set the record straight on its campaign and addressing false claims and misinformation. The statement clarifies that the organization raised objections to rape and incest games on Steam for months but was ignored, leading them to approach payment processors. Collective Shout also called on itch.io to remove rape and incest games that normalized violence and abuse of women, but it was itch.io's decision to remove all NSFW content. The UK games industry trade body UKIE has responded to the recent removal of adult games from Steam and itch.io, stating that payment providers and platforms should have confidence in trusted age rating systems and their enforcement mechanisms.