Gods Unchained Removed from Epic Games Store After Receiving “Adults Only” Rating
Immutable’s NFT card game, Gods Unchained, was quietly removed from the Epic Games Store after receiving an “Adults Only” (AO) rating from the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). The Epic Games Store does not allow games with an AO rating on its platform. The ESRB assigns an AO rating to games deemed suitable only for players over 18 years old. Gods Unchained is currently working on an appeal to have the rating changed.
The Role of the ESRB and Its Ratings
The ESRB is responsible for age-rating video games in the US and Canada. They assign ratings based on a game’s content and level of violence or mature themes. Gods Unchained received an AO rating due to its play-to-earn elements involving cryptocurrency. Microsoft also does not allow Adults Only-rated titles on its platforms.
The Impact on Blockchain Games
Gods Unchained’s removal from the Epic Games Store raises concerns for other blockchain games that offer rewards with real-world value, such as tokens or NFTs. The ESRB’s statement suggests that more blockchain games may face removal if they involve earning items with real-world value. Additionally, Epic Games requires all blockchain games to be rated in all regions where they will be distributed.
Possible Future Restrictions
With the growing number of blockchain games offering rewards, it is possible that more crypto games will be barred from the Epic Store due to their ESRB ratings. Games or apps that offer players something with real-world value could potentially receive an AO rating.
Hot Take: Will Blockchain Games Face Increasing Barriers?
The removal of Gods Unchained from the Epic Games Store highlights the challenges faced by blockchain games in terms of ESRB ratings. As more games incorporate play-to-earn mechanics and rewards with real-world value, they may encounter difficulties in being accepted on mainstream platforms. Game developers will need to navigate the requirements and guidelines set by both rating boards and digital marketplaces to ensure their games can reach a wider audience.
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