Steam updates require developers to add new disclaimers for some games

a new steam An updated policy was published on October 30 that requires developers using kernel-level anti-cheat software to explicitly disclaim it in their storefront. Steam is the world's largest platform for buying PC games online, which in many cases means that any rules the company sets must be followed by developers who want their games sold.

Over the past few weeks, the platform has made significant changes to its policies, many of which have upset players, such as those stating that Steam games are simply licensed. With hundreds of millions of current users and millions more joining the platform each year, transparency is essential to avoid backlash and other adverse outcomes.

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In a recent Steam policy update released by the company on October 30, it was announced that developers whose games use kernel-level anti-cheat software should start posting a disclaimer about it on their storefront. At its most basic, anti-cheat software works at the kernel level inside players' PCs, scanning various files while monitoring in-game activity to try to detect dishonest behavior, which can make some people uncomfortable with privacy. And probably surprise them. What does the software have access to?

Steam update requires developers to announce kernel-level anti-cheats

2024 has been a big year for the platform, as Steam hit a record of over 38 million online users in September, which is an impressive feat and shows just how popular it is. The reason for the recent policy update requiring developers to add a kernel-level anti-cheat software disclaimer is still unknown. However, it's not far-fetched to assume it might be to avoid problems with players who feel the software is too aggressive.

Requiring an anti-cheat disclaimer at the platform's core isn't the only change, as in June of this year Steam issued rules regarding AI-generated content in games. This proves that the gaming giant is probably struggling to keep up with the latest technologies and the opportunities and threats they present.

While Steam sometimes removes controversial or older titles, it often keeps others, so the platform has announced that its kernel-level anti-cheat software disclaimer also applies retroactively to older games. Whether this will increase player trust in Steam and the developers it works with, or negatively impact multiple titles with new disclaimers, remains to be seen.

steam

Steam is a digital video game storefront and application developed by Valve that allows gamers to purchase, play and modify their titles through a convenient application.

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valve

Original publication date

September 12, 2003

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