Game Studios Rethink Features Amid Online Safety Law Pressure

Game Developers Face New Challenges with Online Safety Regulations

Earlier this year, the UK's Online Safety Act made waves in the gaming world by pushing platforms like Steam and Itch.io to restrict or obscure certain types of adult content. Steam even introduced an age-verification requirement to comply. Xbox is also gearing up to enforce age verification from next year for using specific social features. These developments have led to a broader reassessment by game developers on how they incorporate online features.

Studios Re-evaluating Social Features

The Game Business recently caught up with Isabel Davies, a lawyer at media, technology, and IP law firm Wiggin, to discuss the impact of these evolving online safety laws. Davies highlighted the necessity of conducting risk assessments to protect children from potentially harmful content. Simple measures, like avoiding suggestions for adding random strangers to friend lists or blocking messages from unknown users, can be effective initial steps.

Investment in Social Modes Under Scrutiny

Some studios are weighing the value of 'user-to-user' modes. "I've spoken to some already [that are doing that]," Davies noted. "Or, they've gone 'We will do it, but maybe not at launch.' A good example will be … let's get the core game monetization loop working, let's make sure the gameplay is good. And only then invest in clan functionality or chat functionality etcetera."

"Online safety is not going away anytime soon," Davies emphasized.

According to Davies, for many studios, the new guidelines might not necessitate drastic changes as they are already implementing recommended practices. However, the focus is on documenting these precautions correctly and adjusting player interactions slightly to remain compliant.

Global Landscape of Online Safety Laws

While the UK's Online Safety Act sets a precedent, the European Union is crafting its own Digital Services Act, and several U.S. states have enacted laws surrounding access to adult content. As these regulations continue to evolve, game developers may need to adapt further in the future, ensuring both compliance and player safety while maintaining engaging gameplay.