In a notable change, the Epic Games Store has updated their policies to allow inclusion of blockchain-based games on your platform. This move marks a change from its previous stance and distinguishes Epic Games from other digital distribution platforms.
However, the implementation of this new policy has raised concerns around content guidelines and the application of age ratings, particularly over games that feature play-to-earn mechanics.
Epic Games Store adopts Blockchain games
According to a PC gamer reportUnlike its competitor Steam, which banned nft games in 2021, the Epic Games Store has demonstrated a more open approach.
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney expressed his belief in the freedom of developers to choose how to design their games, leaving it up to users to decide whether or not to engage with blockchain-based titles. As a result, the first blockchain game, Blankos Block Party, debuted on the Epic Store shortly after Sweeney's statement.
The ESRB, the North American video game rating agency, recently assigned an Adults Only (AO) rating to two blockchain-based games, Gods Unchained and Striker Manager 3.
Surprisingly, the rating was not due to explicit adult content, but rather the inclusion of win-win game mechanics that offer “cash prizes.” According to Epic Games Store content guidelinesAO rated products cannot be distributed on their platform, resulting in these games being removed from sale.
The ESRB clarified that the AO rating was not directly related to the games being blockchain-based, but rather to their specific implementation.
The rating agency considers factors such as real money rewards, prizes with real-world value, and cash participation in determining ratings. Although it is not a general rule, blockchain-enabled games or applications may receive a AO rating if a combination of these factors is present.
Clash of ratings and guidelines
Following the removal of Gods Unchained and Striker Manager 3, the Epic Games Store made an exception to its policy for games that received an AO rating solely due to their implementation of cryptographic or nft (non-fungible token) technology.
However, these games must still comply with Epic's content guidelines, including prohibitions on facilitating gambling and other restricted content.
The clash between the ESRB's rating decisions and Epic's content guidelines has created a complex situation for blockchain game developers.
While Steam continues to ban blockchain games, the Epic Games Store's more lenient stance allows blockchain-based titles. reach a wider audience.
However, the challenge lies in navigating the fine line between implementing the nascent technology and avoiding content that generates an AO rating.
Epic Games Store's decision to allow blockchain games on its platform signifies a shift in the digital distribution landscape. While this move presents new possibilities for developers, challenges arise in reconciling age ratings and content guidelines for blockchain-based titles.
As the gaming industry continues to explore the potential of blockchain technology, finding a balance between innovation and compliance with existing regulations will be crucial to the future of this emerging genre.
Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com
