Epic Games Store Now Allows Blockchain Games
The Epic Games Store has made a significant change to its policies by allowing blockchain-based games on its platform. This sets it apart from other digital distribution platforms and demonstrates a more open-minded approach compared to competitors like Steam. The CEO of Epic Games, Tim Sweeney, believes in developers’ freedom to choose how they design their games and leaves 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, was released on the Epic Store shortly after Sweeney’s statement.
Concerns Surrounding Content Guidelines and Age Ratings
However, the implementation of this new policy has raised concerns about content guidelines and age ratings, particularly for games featuring play-to-earn mechanics. The ESRB, the North American video game rating agency, recently assigned an Adults Only (AO) rating to two blockchain-based games due to the inclusion of play-to-earn mechanics offering “cash prizes.” The Epic Games Store’s content guidelines state that products with an AO rating cannot be distributed on their platform, resulting in the removal of these games from sale.
The Clash Between Ratings and Guidelines
Following the removal of these games, Epic Games Store made an exception for games that received an AO rating solely due to their crypto or NFT technology implementation. However, these games still need to adhere to Epic’s content guidelines, including prohibitions on gambling facilitation and other restricted content. This clash between the ESRB’s rating decisions and Epic’s content guidelines poses a challenge for blockchain game developers. While Steam continues to ban blockchain games, the Epic Games Store’s more accepting stance allows blockchain-based titles to reach a wider audience.
Finding Balance for the Future
The Epic Games Store’s decision to allow blockchain games on its platform signifies a shift in the digital distribution landscape. While it presents new possibilities for developers, challenges arise when reconciling age ratings and content guidelines for blockchain-based titles. As the gaming industry explores the potential of blockchain technology, striking a balance between innovation and compliance with existing regulations will be crucial for the future of this emerging genre.
Hot Take: Epic Games Store Welcomes Blockchain Games
The Epic Games Store’s updated policy to include blockchain-based games marks a significant departure from its previous stance and sets it apart from competitors like Steam. This move demonstrates a more open-minded approach and allows developers the freedom to design their games as they choose. However, concerns have been raised regarding content guidelines and age ratings, particularly for games featuring play-to-earn mechanics. The clash between the ESRB’s rating decisions and Epic’s content guidelines presents a challenge for blockchain game developers. Despite these challenges, the Epic Games Store’s acceptance of blockchain games opens up new possibilities while navigating the fine line between innovation and compliance.
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