IGDA condemns Steam's blocking of adult games for harming creators

In an open letter that has already sparked debate within the industry, the International Game Developers Association (IGDA) expressed its firm rejection of the recent restrictions imposed by platforms such as Steam and itch.io , which have begun removing video games with adult content . While some measures address sensitive topics such as incest or non-consensual sex, the organization warns that many other artistic experiences are being unfairly censored .

Imagine an indie developer who has invested two years in a video game that addresses LGBT+ love , emotional trauma, and the rediscovery of identity. One day, without warning, their game disappears from the store. The reason: it was rated NSFW, despite not containing anything illegal or explicitly offensive. This story isn't fiction, but a growing reality that the IGDA is trying to make visible.

"The problem isn't the rules themselves, but their inconsistent application, with no clear warnings or opportunity for appeal," the association says.

According to the IGDA letter, this wave of blocks and restrictions isn't stemming exclusively from distribution platforms, but from pressure exerted by payment processors like Visa and Mastercard , which threaten to withdraw their services from those hosting adult content. This means that financial institutions are influencing the narrative of video games , a phenomenon alarming due to its lack of transparency.

Additionally, bans have begun to impact games with sensitive but legitimate themes , such as bullying , eating disorders , or same-sex romantic relationships . These are important themes that help represent historically marginalized communities.

The IGDA lists the many negative effects these policies are having on creators:

• Loss of income without notice
• Impact on professional reputation
• Suppression of creativity
• Lack of appeal channels
• Unfair censorship of works for narrative or artistic purposes

This, the organization warns, is particularly detrimental to independent studios and creative minorities , who rely on these platforms to share their vision with the world.

The IGDA does not support the promotion of sexual violence or the sexualization of minors. However, it clarifies that video games must be able to address adult themes from an artistic, responsible, and consensual perspective. Therefore, it proposes the following:

• Clear and public guidelines on permitted content
• Prior communication before removing games
• Right to appeal the elimination of titles
• Transparency in decision-making
• Respect for creative freedom as a fundamental right

"The right to create mature games is just as valid as the right to depict war, death, or love. We need a clear, fair, and inclusive industry," the letter concludes.