A leading credit card company is stepping back from the controversy surrounding the recent ban on Steam games. Mastercard insists it did not initiate the removal of any specific titles from gaming platforms. While it opposes unlawful adult content, critics argue that many legal games have been unfairly targeted.
The sudden removal of adult-themed games from Steam has stirred the gaming community. Shortly after, Itch.io followed suit, delisting over 20,000 indie titles marked as NSFW. Both platforms cited compliance with payment processors like Visa, Mastercard, and Stripe as the reason behind their actions. In response to protests, including a Change.org petition, Mastercard clarified its involvement. The company stated they hadn’t “evaluated any game or required restrictions of any activity on game creator sites and platforms.” Nevertheless, it stressed that merchants must prevent “unlawful purchases, including illegal adult content,” a point that has sparked outrage among gamers. While some games might have promoted illicit content, others appear to have been targeted merely for their adult themes.
Following a wave of discontent from gamers through calls and emails, Mastercard felt the need to respond. They argue they do not play a direct role in determining which games are sold on marketplaces. However, an advocacy group, Collective Shout, claims to have lobbied these payment processors to put pressure on vendors. This Australian organization opposes the objectification of women and the sexualization of minors. Yet, some critics contend the group campaigns against all mature content for moral or political reasons.
Regarding Itch.io, Mastercard can more clearly distance itself from the debate, as this platform uses Stripe and PayPal instead of Mastercard or Visa. Stripe has been explicit about not allowing merchants to use its services for mature-themed games, videos, or art. In response, Itch.io is exploring alternative payment solutions and reinstating free adult content games.
On Reddit and other forums, Mastercard’s explanation has met with skepticism. The situation leaves major credit card companies facing ongoing backlash from consumers who feel that the censorship of games is unwarranted.
