Mastercard comments on Steam games ban, claiming payment processor only objects to illegal adult content

Recently, the mass removal of Steam games with adult themes has sent shockwaves throughout the industry. Itchi.io soon followed by delisting over 20,000 independent titles with NSFW content. Both platforms explained they were following the guidelines of payment processors like Visa, Mastercard, and Stripe. After protests that included a Change.org petition, Mastercard has issued a statement clarifying its role in the bans.

The credit card denies that it “evaluated any game or required restrictions of any activity on game creator sites and platforms”. However, Mastercard emphasizes that merchants must prevent “unlawful purchases, including illegal adult content”. The last part of the statement is what is drawing the most furor from gamers. While some Steam games may have promoted illegal acts, other titles seem targeted simply for featuring adult content.

After angry phone calls and emails from gamers, Mastercard likely felt compelled to respond. The company argues that it doesn’t have a hands-on role in deciding which games marketplaces sell. Still, the advocacy group Collective Shout claims it lobbied payment processors to pressure these vendors. The Australian organization opposes the objectification of women and the sexualization of girls. Even so, critics believe it campaigns against all mature content on moral or political grounds.

With Itchi.io, Mastercard can more legitimately separate itself from the controversy. The gaming marketplace relies on Stripe and PayPal rather than Mastercard or Visa. Stripe is clearer about not allowing retailers to use it for any mature-themed games, videos, or art. Itch.io is now pursuing alternative payment processors while reinstating free adult-oriented games.

So far, the response on Reddit and forums to Mastercard’s explanation has been anything but sympathetic. The major credit card companies will continue to face the wrath of consumers who feel that games are being unjustly censored.