- The Epic Games Store has updated its policy to allow blockchain games that receive AO ratings solely for crypto or NFT features, after previously banning all AO-rated titles.
- Gods Unchained, a blockchain card game, was removed from Epic Games along with other crypto titles for its play-to-earn elements that got it an AO rating, but can now return under the new policy.
- Though AO ratings usually indicate violent/sexual content, they are now given to crypto games; Epic’s policy change eliminates the contradiction of welcoming crypto games but banning AO ratings.
The popular blockchain card game is back on the Fortnite publisher’s platform after being removed due to its AO rating. A policy tweak now allows such games, despite restrictions elsewhere.
Epic Games Store Updates Content Policy for Blockchain Games
The Epic Games Store has updated its content policies to allow blockchain-based games that receive Adults Only (AO) ratings solely due to their crypto or NFT features. Previously, no AO-rated games were permitted on the platform.
Gods Unchained Was Removed for Its Play-to-Earn Elements
Gods Unchained, along with other blockchain titles like Striker Manager 3, were previously taken off the Epic Games Store after being assigned AO ratings by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). The ESRB gave Gods Unchained an AO rating because of its play-to-earn elements that can reward players with NFTs or tokens carrying real-world value.
AO Ratings Typically Denote Violent or Sexual Content
AO is the most restrictive rating the ESRB assigns, usually for games with intense violence or graphic sexual content. Xbox and PlayStation don’t allow AO games. Now, Epic is making an exception for blockchain games that get AO ratings solely for their crypto features.
Policy Aimed to Resolve Blockchain Game Conundrum
The policy change eliminates a catch-22 problem where Epic welcomed blockchain games but banned AO titles, even though many blockchain games get AO ratings precisely because of their crypto elements. Epic’s rules against gambling, pornography and hateful content remain in effect.
Crypto Games May Still Get AO Ratings But Can Now Launch on Epic
While blockchain games that offer real-world value will likely continue receiving AO ratings from the ESRB, those ratings will no longer prohibit the games from launching on the Epic Games Store under the new policy.
