Epic Games Store Changes Content Policies to Allow Gods Unchained and Other Blockchain Games
The Epic Games Store has updated its content policies, enabling the NFT card game Gods Unchained and other blockchain games to return to its platform, according to an announcement from Fortnite publisher Epic Games on Tuesday.
AO Ratings for Blockchain Games
Gods Unchained and Striker Manager 3 were previously removed from the Epic Games Store due to receiving “Adults Only” rating scores from the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). However, the recent policy change now allows games with an AO rating solely because of their use of blockchain or NFT technology.
“Some blockchain-based games are receiving Adults Only (AO) ratings from industry ratings bodies for their particular implementation of blockchain,” explained an Epic Games representative via email.
Epic Games Makes an Exception
The ESRB assigned an AO rating to Gods Unchained because it involves play-to-earn elements that result in players receiving NFTs or crypto tokens with real-world value. Epic Games is now willing to make an exception to its no-AO games policy for blockchain games that would otherwise not be rated as such without their crypto or NFT elements.
Continued Restrictions on Gambling, Porn, and Hateful Content
While Epic Games has relaxed its stance on AO-rated blockchain games, its policies against “gambling,” “porn,” and “hateful content” remain in place. Therefore, developers of blockchain games must still adhere to these restrictions.
Hot Take: The Future of Blockchain Games on Epic Games Store
The recent policy change by the Epic Games Store is a significant step towards embracing blockchain games and recognizing their unique features. By allowing games with AO ratings solely due to blockchain or NFT technology, Epic Games is opening its platform to a new wave of innovative and interactive gaming experiences. While some may argue that the real-world value of NFTs and crypto tokens in these games may raise concerns, it is clear that Epic Games is willing to navigate this territory and provide opportunities for developers in the blockchain gaming space.
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