Why NSFW Games Are Being Removed From Steam and Itch.io and Who Is Responsible

Recently, several adult games were taken down from popular platforms like Steam and Itch.io. This happened after credit card companies put pressure on these platforms, saying that some games did not meet their rules. Mastercard, one of the biggest credit card companies, has released a statement saying that they are not responsible for these takedowns and that their system allows all legal purchases.

Mastercard says that it does not directly control which games are sold. Instead, it provides the technology that allows transactions between buyers and sellers. The company explains that it expects merchants to prevent illegal purchases, including those involving illegal adult content. However, the games that were removed are legal in the United States, though they may be banned in other countries.

Even though Mastercard says it is not to blame, both Valve and Itch.io have pointed to payment processors as the reason for removing these games. Payment processors like Paypal and Stripe handle transactions using credit cards such as Mastercard and Visa. When Stripe blocked payments for some adult content, Itch.io had to suspend these payment options for certain games.

Valve tried to talk to Mastercard directly about keeping some games on Steam but did not receive a response. Instead, payment processors relayed that Mastercard has rules about protecting its brand, especially Rule 5.12.7. This rule says that merchants cannot sell anything illegal or anything that could hurt Mastercard's reputation. This includes material that is offensive or lacks artistic value, such as violent or non-consensual acts.

If banks or sellers ignore complaints about illegal or brand-damaging products, they can face serious penalties from Mastercard. So while Mastercard claims it is not directly responsible, its rules and influence have led platforms and payment processors to take adult content down.

The controversy continues as some activist groups have pushed for more restrictions. At the same time, others believe that public pressure could also help support adult content and prevent unfair censorship in the future.

Original article and image: https://www.pcgamer.com/games/mastercard-deflects-blame-for-nsfw-games-being-taken-down-but-valve-says-payment-processors-specifically-cited-a-mastercard-rule-about-damaging-the-brand/