Gods Unchained Removed from Epic Games Store Due to “Adults Only” Rating
The popular NFT card game, Gods Unchained, has been removed from the Epic Games Store after receiving an “Adults Only” rating from the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). The game’s play-to-earn mechanics, which allow players to earn crypto and NFTs, were the reason behind the rating. Epic Games does not allow games with an AO rating on its marketplace. Even unrated games are treated as “Mature”.
Epic Games’ Stance on Adults Only Games
Epic Games has a long-standing rule against allowing Adults Only games on its platform. The ESRB assigns this rating to games with graphic violence, nudity, sexual content, or in this case, real-world value through cryptocurrency and NFTs.
The Implications for Gods Unchained and Similar Games
Gods Unchained offered players the ability to earn Gods Tokens (GODS) and NFT playing cards that could be sold on marketplaces. However, these opportunities to earn real-world value resulted in an AO rating. Gods Unchained’s publisher, Immutable, is appealing the decision, but until then, the game cannot be on Epic’s marketplace. This situation highlights the clash between traditional gaming norms and the new world of web3 games that offer digital value through tokens and NFTs.
Hot Take: The Challenge for Play-to-Earn Gaming
The removal of Gods Unchained from the Epic Games Store due to its play-to-earn mechanics raises concerns for other publishers in the space. It forces developers to choose between censoring their web3 features or facing rejection from major platforms. This clash between traditional ratings systems and the evolving landscape of blockchain gaming could hinder adoption and accessibility. Gods Unchained’s situation serves as a reminder that obstacles still exist in bringing play-to-earn gaming into the mainstream spotlight.
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