Itch.io Removes Adult NSFW Content Amid Payment Processor Pressure
▼ Summary
– itch.io has deindexed all adult NSFW content from browse and search pages due to pressure from payment processors regarding certain hosted content.
– The decision followed scrutiny over a banned game called *No Mercy* and a campaign by Collective Shout targeting payment processors.
– itch.io is conducting a content audit to comply with payment processor requirements and will introduce new compliance measures for NSFW content.
– Some content will be permanently removed, and affected creators will be notified via email with options for follow-up questions.
– Valve also introduced new Steam guidelines restricting adult content, citing pressure from payment processors as a key reason.
The indie gaming platform itch.io has removed adult NSFW content from public browsing and search results after facing pressure from payment providers. The sudden move comes as financial partners raised concerns about certain types of explicit material hosted on the site, forcing the marketplace to take immediate action to maintain payment processing capabilities.
In a recent announcement, itch.io founder leafo explained the platform had “deindexed” all adult-oriented content from public view while conducting a full review. The decision follows scrutiny over a controversial game called No Mercy, which was banned earlier this year but sparked a broader campaign by advocacy group Collective Shout. The organization targeted payment companies like PayPal, Visa, and Mastercard, urging them to stop processing transactions for platforms hosting games with extreme themes.
Payment processors play a crucial role in digital marketplaces, and losing their support could cripple a platform’s ability to function. “Our ability to process payments is essential for every creator,” leafo stated. “To keep operating, we must comply with our payment partners’ requirements.” The team is now auditing content to align with stricter policies, though some material may be permanently removed.
Affected creators will receive notifications via email, with an option to appeal decisions. Meanwhile, itch.io plans to implement new compliance measures, including additional verification steps for NSFW uploads. Developers will need to confirm their content adheres to payment processor guidelines before distribution.
This development follows similar actions by Valve, which recently updated Steam’s publishing rules to exclude content violating payment provider standards. While Valve didn’t directly link the changes to Collective Shout’s campaign, a spokesperson acknowledged that pressure from financial institutions influenced the decision. Losing payment options would disrupt sales across the entire platform, making compliance a necessity rather than a choice.
For now, itch.io’s adult content remains accessible via direct links but hidden from general discovery. The platform aims to balance creator freedom with financial sustainability, though the long-term impact on indie developers specializing in mature games remains uncertain.
(Source: Games Industry)
