Epic Games Store Embraces Blockchain with New Policy for Adults Only Games
Epic Games Store has updated its content policy, now permitting games that incorporate blockchain technology, even if they have received an Adults Only rating from the ESRB. This marks a significant shift from their previous stance of excluding all Adults Only-rated games from their platform.
The change came into the spotlight on December 19th when Epic Games Store reinstated two blockchain-based games, 'Gods Unchained' and 'Striker Manager 3,' after their removal due to the Adults Only rating by the ESRB. The policy adjustment specifically exempts games rated solely for their use of blockchain or NFT technology from the Adults Only restriction, provided they adhere to Epic's rules against pornography, gambling, hate content, and the platform's regulations on blockchain.
Epic Games Store's new direction starkly contrasts with Valve's Steam, which in 2021 banned blockchain games that facilitate the exchange of cryptocurrencies or NFTs. Epic's nuanced approach creates a niche for blockchain games on its store, potentially attracting a segment of the gaming market that has been excluded from Steam.
This move by Epic underscores the evolving dynamics in the digital games marketplace, as platforms grapple with the integration of emerging technologies like blockchain while maintaining content standards.
Source: Epic Games